In order to study the structure and temperature distribution within high-mass star-forming clumps, we employed the Australia Telescope Compact Array to image the $\mathrm{NH}_3$ (J,K) = (1,1) through (6,6) and the (2,1) inversion transitions, the $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$ $6_{16}$-$5_{23}$ maser line at 22.23508 GHz, several $\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{OH}$ lines and hydrogen and helium recombination lines. In addition, 22- and 24-GHz radio continuum emission was also imaged.

The $\mathrm{NH}_3$ lines probe the optical depth and gas temperature of compact structures within the clumps. The $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$ maser pinpoints the location of shocked gas associated with star formation. The recombination lines and the continuum emission trace the ionised gas associated with hot OB stars. The paper describes the data and presents sample images and spectra towards select clumps. The technique for estimating gas temperature from $\mathrm{NH}_3$ line ratios is described. The data show widespread hyperfine intensity anomalies in the $\mathrm{NH}_3$ (1,1) images, an indicator of non-LTE $\mathrm{NH}_3$ excitation. We also identify several new $\mathrm{NH}_3$ (3,3) masers associated with shocked gas. Towards AGAL328.809+00.632, the $\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$ $6_{16}$-$5_{23}$ line, normally seen as a maser, is instead seen as a thermally excited absorption feature against a strong background continuum. The data products are described in detail.

Astronomy in Colombia has been done since the beginning of the nineteenth century, when in 1803 one of the oldest (or maybe the oldest) astronomical observatories of America was built. This is a very beautiful, historical and ancient building. A small dome with a small telescope is also inside the university campus. The observatory marks since then the development of astronomy in Colombia as a professional science. At the present time a Master's programme and a Specialization programme are successfully carried out with a good number of smart young students. The observatory has a staff of eleven professors, all with a master's degree in sciences; two of them have a PhD and in a couple of years five staff members will have a PhD in physics. With some international collaboration, they will introduce in a few years a doctoral astronomical program. There are several research lines mainly in the fields of astrometry, Galactic and extragalactic astronomy, cosmology, astro-statistics and astrobiology. Three research groups have got recognition from the governmental institution that supports the research in sciences COLCIENCIAS. Several papers have been published in national and international journals. Besides the professional line in astronomy, the observatory sponsors several non-professional Colombian astronomical groups that work enthusiastically in the field of astronomy.