This New Year, explore New Mexico’s designated Dark Sky locations
Nine certified Dark Sky Places across the state offer unique stargazing opportunities and cultural insights
Organ Mountain News report
New Mexico, known for its wide-open landscapes and clear skies, boasts nine certified Dark Sky Places recognized by DarkSky International. These locations provide some of the most pristine night-sky viewing opportunities in the United States, combining natural beauty with cultural and historical significance.
Capulin Volcano National Monument
Capulin Volcano, an International Dark Sky Association Gold-Tier Park, offers year-round programming to celebrate its star-filled skies. Visitors can explore the soon-to-be-constructed Night Sky Observation Station or participate in seasonal “Star Parties” held April through September. These events, which feature ranger-led talks and telescope viewing, take place at the base or rim of the volcano.
More information: Capulin Volcano National Monument
Clayton Lake State Park
Designated as New Mexico’s first Dark Sky Park in 2010, Clayton Lake State Park features low light pollution and a 14-inch Mead telescope for public use. Monthly stargazing events coincide with the new moon, offering clear views of the Milky Way and other celestial phenomena. While waiting for nightfall, visitors can explore the park’s dinosaur tracks and geology exhibits.
More information: Clayton Lake State Park
Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Chaco Canyon, designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2013, links ancient astronomy with modern stargazing. During summer, visitors can attend lectures on the astronomical practices of the ancient Puebloans and use the park’s telescopes for deep-sky observation.
More information: Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Fort Union National Monument
Fort Union became a certified Dark Sky Park in 2019, offering special evening programs that highlight its serene, starry environment. Park rangers lead visitors through telescope-based explorations of the night sky.
More information: Fort Union National Monument
Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
Located in the Estancia Basin, Salinas Pueblo Missions preserves its dark skies with minimal light pollution, especially at Gran Quivira, which offers panoramic views up to 100 miles. The park combines stargazing with its historical mission churches and cultural landscapes.
More information: Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument
Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary
The Cosmic Campground, situated near the Gila Wilderness, was the first Dark Sky Sanctuary in the Northern Hemisphere. Its remote location provides uninterrupted 360-degree views of the night sky, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. The campground features hard-surface telescope pads and no artificial light for miles.
More information: Cosmic Campground
Valles Caldera National Preserve
As New Mexico’s newest Dark Sky Park, designated in 2021, Valles Caldera offers expansive views of the Milky Way and other celestial events. Located in the Jemez Mountains, visitors can attend astronomy programs or stargaze independently in its 89,000-acre preserve.
More information: Valles Caldera National Preserve
El Morro National Monument
Certified in 2019, El Morro’s remote location allows for optimal star visibility. The monument collaborates with the community to minimize light pollution and hosts stargazing events throughout the year.
More information: El Morro National Monument
Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge
As an Urban Dark Sky Place, Valle de Oro balances its proximity to Albuquerque with measures to protect its night skies. The refuge is an accessible option for those seeking an introduction to stargazing close to urban areas.
More information: Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge
Additional Resources
For a full list of certified Dark Sky Places in New Mexico and links to individual sites, visit New Mexico True.
Night Sky Brightness Map: Explore light pollution levels and find ideal stargazing spots with the Light Pollution Map.
With its diverse array of Dark Sky Places, New Mexico offers a unique blend of celestial observation and cultural exploration, appealing to amateur astronomers and casual visitors alike.