Astronomy Friends of The Parks announces 2022 fall-winter and 2023 spring programs

Category: Local Events Local Events
Published: 07 September 2022 07 September 2022

City of Rocks State Park and Rockhound State Park in conjunction with the Astronomy Friends of The Parks announce the '22 fall/winter and '23 Spring astronomy program schedule.

Weather permitting, about 20 minutes after sunset, a laser guided tour is given on the highlights of that evening sky. Followed by visual observations with telescopes with assistance from members of the park friends, lasting approximately 2 hours.

City of Rocks programs are given at the Orion group campsite. The Gene & Elizabeth Simon Observatory located at the campsite further compliments the setting.
Rockhound programs are given at the viewing patio, just west of the Visitors' Center.

Both parks have a uniqueness and wonder.

These are New Mexico State Park venues. Please follow and adhere to their rules and regulations. Please check for status/weather and alerts before attending. Pass fees will apply.

City of Rocks State Park (575) 536-2800
Rockhound State Park (575) 546-6182
The Astronomy Friends of The Parks assist the parks' staff in presenting these programs.

Please bring your favorite red colored small light to preserve your night vision as you move around. Don't worry if you don't have one, we have loaners.

*** Spoiler Alert*** Planet Palooza this fall!!!
2022
September 16, Friday Rockhound State Park, sunset- 7:15 pm
September 17, Saturday City of Rocks State Park, sunset- 7:15 pm

October 14, Friday Rockhound State Park, sunset- 6:40 pm
October 15, Saturday City of Rocks State Park, sunset- 6:40 pm

November 18, Friday Rockhound State Park, sunset- 5:10 pm
November 19, Saturday City of Rocks State Park, sunset- 5:10 pm

December 16, Friday Rockhound State Park, sunset- 5:10 pm
December 17, Saturday City of Rocks State Park, sunset- 5:10 pm

2023
January 20, Friday Rockhound State Park, sunset- 5:30 pm
January 21, Saturday City of Rocks State Park, sunset- 5:30 pm

February 17, Friday Rockhound State Park, sunset- 6:00 pm
February 18, Saturday City of Rocks State Park, sunset- 6:00 pm

March 17, Friday Rockhound State Park, sunset- 7:20 pm
March 18, Saturday City of Rocks Sate Park, sunset- 7:20 pm

April 14, Friday Rockhound State Park, sunset- 7:40 pm
April 15, Saturday City of Rocks State Park, sunset- 7:40 pm

May 19, Friday Rockhound State Park, sunset- 8:00 pm
May 20, Saturday City of Rocks State Park, sunset- 8:00 pm

Due to heat and monsoon season, we do not give presentations June through August.

Astronomer Friends of The Parks are local area advanced amateur astronomers that like sharing and observing with new and old friends.
Carrying on a tradition passed on by Sally Allen and John Gilkison.
Facebook: Astronomy Friends of The Parks
Some of us are members of the Astronomical Society of Las Cruces (aslc-nm.org)

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