Community invited to discover how the Ancestral Puebloans incorporated the cycles of the Sun and Moon into the architecture of Chaco Canyon during the Getting Oriented with Chaco Canyon planetarium program, Nov. 14 at the Los Alamos Nature Center. Courtesy/PEEC

PEEC News:

Discover how the Ancestral Puebloans incorporated the cycles of the Sun and Moon into the architecture of Chaco Canyon during the Getting Oriented with Chaco Canyon planetarium program at the Los Alamos Nature Center from 7-8 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 14.

This immersive, full-dome planetarium experience allows participants to observe the Sun’s annual rising and setting patterns, the Moon’s monthly horizon cycles, and the Moon’s subtle 18.6-year horizon cycle. You’ll see firsthand how these astronomical phenomena were woven into the orientation, internal geometries, and relationships among the Chacoan buildings, offering a unique window into the advanced astronomical knowledge of the Ancestral Puebloans (circa AD 900–1150).

Participants will gain insight into ancient astronomy and architecture, preparing them for future visits to Chaco Canyon with a deeper understanding of its cultural and scientific significance.

Admission: $8/adult, $6/child, $20/family. Planetarium events are generally not recommended for children under 5.

For more information, visit PEEC’s website at peecnature.org/events. Stay connected on social media for updates on each week’s activities. 

PEEC was founded in 2000 to serve the community of Los Alamos. It offers people of all ages a way to enrich their lives by strengthening their connections to our canyons, mesas, mountains, and skies. PEEC operates the Los Alamos Nature Center at 2600 Canyon Road, holds regular programs and events, and hosts several interest groups, from birding to hiking to butterfly watching. PEEC activities are open to everyone; however, members receive exclusive benefits such as discounts on programs and gift shop merchandise. Annual memberships start at $35. To learn more, visit peecnature.org/support/membership/.