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Highlighting humanity’s enduring relationship with celestial bodies, addressing topics such as the construction of structures, observatories, ceremonies, and planting seasons.
Source: New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs
ALAMOGORDO, NM – “Ancient Skies, Modern Eyes” invites visitors of all ages to journey from the realm of ancient stargazers to the forefront of modern science at a free, all-day public event co-hosted by the New Mexico Museum of Space History and the Jornada Research Institute. The event, taking place on Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the New Horizons Dome Theater, features an engaging lineup of esteemed researchers and interactive exhibits that highlight humanity’s enduring relationship with celestial bodies, addressing topics such as the construction of structures, observatories, ceremonies, and planting seasons.
Attendees can explore Richard Friedman’s working model of the Sun Dagger, an ancient solar calendar from Chaco Canyon, and experience Daniel Brown’s “Writing Skyscapes,” a poetic and visual exhibition that invites audiences to reflect on the sky as both muse and message.
Featured Speakers:
- 10:15 AM – 12:00 PM – Joan Price, Jornada Research, will present on the “Great Jaguar” Stone at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site.
- 12:15 – 1:30 PM – Anna Sofaer, Founder of the Solstice Project, will present and then discuss her film The Mystery of Chaco Canyon: Unveiling The Ancient Astronomy.
- 2:00 – 3:30 PM – Dr. Cherilynn Morrow, NASA, will present on the Rock of the Sun, a possible recording of the 1097 full eclipse that occurred at Chaco Canyon
- 4:00 – 5:00 PM – David Greenwald, Director of Jornada Research Institute, will discuss how the great kiva at Creekside Village in Tularosa Canyon was used as an astronomical observatory.
“This event is more than a celebration of astronomy,” said Olga Valanos, the museum’s Public Relations Director. “It’s a journey through time that shows how deeply interconnected science, history, and Indigenous perspectives truly are.”
Please note: The regularly scheduled Giant Screen Films or live star shows will not take place during the event.
Location:New Mexico Museum of Space History – New Horizons Dome Theater3198 State Road 2001, Alamogordo, NM 88310
The New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo is a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. A Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum showcases the significant role New Mexico has played in the development of the U.S. Space Program and features the International Space Hall of Fame, and New Horizons Dome Theater.
