Stars Above the Caldera

Astro Eruption, 2025. The aurora borealis glistens over Valle Grande.

Courtesy of Aaron Lewis

 

Stars Above the Caldera is Valles Caldera National Preserve's annual night sky festival and premier summer event. This year's festival will take place during the new moon on June 12-14 to optimize the dark sky experience for park visitors. Stars Above the Caldera will feature guest speakers, cultural demonstrators, ranger-guided programs, night sky viewing, a silent disco, and more.

NOTE: Leashed and well-behaved pets are welcome at this event. They may accompany their humans throughout the Cabin District, on the Cerro La Jara Loop, Rabbit Mountain Loop, South Valle Grande Trail, in picnic areas, and in front-country parking lots. However, pets are not permitted inside of park facilities or in the backcountry. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

Daily Event Schedule Coming Soon

Friday, June 12

Saturday, June 13

Sunday, June 14

 

Programs Requiring Reservations

Some programs during this special event weekend will require reservations to attend. Once the schedule is finalized, we will provide registration links here and in the daily schedule above!

 

Your International Dark Sky Park

Here at Valles Caldera, we are fortunate to have one of the darkest night skies in the world, and it is a fundamental value that we have committed to protect.

Since 2021, Valles Caldera National Preserve has proudly been an International Dark Sky Park, designated by the International Dark Sky Association. An IDA International Dark Sky Park is a land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment. To maintain our certification, we use night-sky friendly outdoor lighting, offer public astronomy events at least four times per year, and partner with local organizations to help preserve the night sky.

 

Duration:

22 seconds

The night sky in motion in the Cabin District of Valles Caldera National Preserve