NIGHT SKY PROGRAMS (3.5 hours)

PROGRAM DETAILS

The Night Sky Programs at Chimney Rock National Monument offer two different opportunities to observe the stars where the ancient Puebloans did 1,000 years ago; The Stars & Galaxies Program and the Our Solar System Program.

The Stars & Galaxies Program

This program is timed for when the moon is absent from the sky; we can enjoy the night sky in a truly dark environment. A power point presentation gives understanding of deep-sky objects such as binary stars, globular star clusters, open clusters, various nebulae, and other galaxies.

The Our Solar System Program

This program is timed for when the moon is visible but not fully illuminated; we can enjoy the night sky unimpeded by artificial lighting or the brightness of a full moon, and see many of the brighter objects that are visible.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

For both programs, the Hwy 151 Entry Gate will open for check-in during the times stated below. Guests will proceed to the Amphitheater for the program, including topics such as the ancient people’s lifestyle, how they used the unique landscape of the Chimney Rock area to view the sky, and what special astronomical events they might have seen.

This program is perfect for young families and those with limited mobility.  Visitors traveling with their own telescope are encouraged to bring it to the program and share it with others (if restrictions allow). Bring your questions and a flashlight!

Remember that at this altitude the nights begin to cool rapidly after sunset, so an appropriate jacket or sweater will enable you to remain comfortable while you enjoy the majesty of the night sky at Chimney Rock.

Guests must enter through the Hwy 151 entry gate during the check-in period stated below; the gate will be locked at the end of that time. Tickets are $16.00 (adults) and $8.00 (children 5-12) plus booking fee, and are non-refundable. In the event of cancellation due to inclement weather, rain checks will be available. For details, please call the Visitor Cabin (970-883-5359) 9:00 – 4:00 Mountain Time.

Reservations strongly recommended. Limited space. Walk-ins on a first-come, first-serve basis.

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