Perseid Meteor Shower

Every August, the Perseid Meteor Shower streaks across the night sky. El Malpais's dark skies provide the perfect venue for watching this natural spectacle. Learn more about how to see the Perseids at El Malpais!

Perseid Meteor Party

On August 13, 2021, El Malpais National Monument in conjunction with the BLM is hosting a Perseid watch party at Sandstone Bluffs Overlook. Astronomers with The Albuquerque Astronomical Society and New Mexico Tech will be on hand to answer all your night sky questions and provide telescope viewing and constellation tours. This event is free and open to the public.

Schedule of Events

8:00 pm Event starts with a beautiful sunset at Sandstone Bluffs
9:30 pm Telescope viewing begins around astronomical twilight
9:45 pm Constellation tour
11:00 pm Perseid Meteor Shower becomes visible as the constellation Perseus rises
12:00 am Event ends

What to Bring

• Flashlight with a red light setting (most newer headlamps have this)
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Water
• Snacks
• Blankets and/or chairs

How to Get Here

To reach Sandstone Bluffs Overlook, take Exit 89 off I-40 for NM Highway 117 (about 3 miles east of Grants) and drive south for 10 miles. The turn for Sandstone Bluffs will be on your right. Follow the gravel road for about 1 1/2 miles to the parking area. Once at Sandstone Bluffs, follow the path of red lights to reach the viewing area. If arriving after sunset, please turn off your headlights on the gravel road to avoid light pollution impacting the night sky viewing.