Sunday, March 9, 2025

Five Stunning Dark Sky Parks in New Mexico for Stargazing Adventures

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New Mexico, renowned for its stunning daytime skies, also offers remarkable night skies, particularly in areas devoid of urban light pollution. Five sites in the state have received certification as “dark” locations from the International Dark-Sky Association, making them ideal for stargazing and ranger-led night sky programs that emphasize science, nature, and history. Among these locations are Capulin Volcano National Monument, where rangers host evening events, and Chaco Culture National Historical Park, which features ancient astronomical observations. Clayton Lake State Park offers an observatory and excellent meteor shower views, while Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument blends history with stunning night photography opportunities. Lastly, the Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary provides expansive views of the universe with strict lighting regulations to maintain optimal viewing conditions. The best time for observing the Milky Way in these parks is from March to September, inviting both novices and seasoned astronomers alike to experience the splendor of New Mexico’s night sky.

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