Miracle: If any, what is the scientific mystery behind the Tilma of the Lady of Guadalupe?

The Tilma of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a profound scientific mystery that has captivated both scientists and the faithful for centuries. Here are some of the key scientific enigmas surrounding the tilma:

Scientific Mysteries

1. Material and Durability: The tilma is made from a type of cactus fiber known as agave, which typically deteriorates within 15 to 20 years. However, the tilma has remained intact for nearly 500 years without any signs of decay, defying the natural lifespan of its material124.

2. Lack of Paint or Pigments: Despite extensive examination, no paint or pigments have been found on the tilma. The image appears to be iridescent, changing colors when viewed from different angles, which is impossible to achieve with human painting techniques24.

3. The Eyes of the Virgin: The eyes on the tilma contain reflections that conform to the Samson-Purkinje effect, a phenomenon not understood until centuries later. These reflections include images of people believed to be Juan Diego and Bishop Zumarraga, which could not have been painted by hand125.

4. Constellations and Symbolism: The stars on the tilma align with the constellations visible in the sky on December 12, 1531. Additionally, the flowers depicted correspond to the locations of volcanoes in Mexico, a feat that would have been impossible to achieve with the cartographic knowledge of the time35.

5. Resistance to Damage: The tilma has survived several incidents that should have damaged it, including bombings in 1921 and 1979, without sustaining any harm3.

These phenomena have been extensively studied, yet they remain unexplained by science, contributing to the tilma's status as a miraculous artifact.