News Release

Chiricahua Night Sky Event

Chiricahua NM sky at night

Jack Suman

News Release Date: October 17, 2022

Contact: Suzanne Moody, 520-824-3560 x9305

WILLCOX, AZ — Celebrate the wonders of our night sky at Chiricahua National Monument on Saturday, October 22, 2022, from 6-9 pm. Staff at this International Dark Sky Certified Park in partnership with members from the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (TAAA) will be hosting a two-part special event.

Jim O’Connor from TAAA will begin the evening festivities with the program, “Indigenous Universe” from 6:00-6:45 pm at the Bonita Canyon Campground Amphitheater. He will discuss how several local Native American cultures interpret elements of the night sky and the lessons held there.

The talk will be followed with telescope viewing at the Echo Canyon trailhead parking lot from 7-9 pm. Participants should expect to see the planets, Jupiter and Saturn, along with galaxies, star clusters, nebulae, and many more deep sky wonders. Shuttle service will be provided from the campground to and from the Echo Canyon parking lot. People are invited to attend both programs or choose either one.

Registration is required. Call the visitor center staff at 520-824-3560 x9302 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, daily. Participants should dress warmly, bring drinks, snacks, a portable chair or blanket to sit upon, and a flashlight with a red filter, if possible. The Western National Parks Association will have a variety of night sky themed items and snacks available for purchase.

Chiricahua National Monument is located 4 miles east of the AZ HWY 181 and 186 junction, and 37 miles southeast of Willcox. Check www.nps.gov/chir for more park information or call the visitor center staff at 520-824-3560 ext. 9302. For details about the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association, visit www.tucsonastronomy.org.