Prepare to be captivated by the mysteries of the cosmos and the wisdom of ancient sky watchers at Ancient Skies, Modern Eyes—an enlightening, all-day free public event that explores how humanity has long turned to the stars for meaning, guidance, and inspiration.
Taking place on Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the New Horizons Dome Theater of the NM Museum of Space History in Alamogordo, this immersive experience is co-hosted by the Jornada Research Institute. Throughout the day, a dynamic lineup of renowned speakers will delve into the astronomical importance of petroglyphs, solar calendars, eclipses, and ceremonial sites.
Attendees can explore Richard Friedman’s working model of the Sun Dagger, an ancient solar calendar from Chaco Canyon, and experience Daniel Brown’s “Writing Skyscapes,” a poetic and visual exhibition that invites audiences to reflect on the sky as both muse and message.
Featured Speakers:
- 10:15 AM – 12:00 PM – Joan Price, Jornada Research, will present on the “Great Jaguar” Stone at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site.
- 12:15 – 1:30 PM – Anna Sofaer, Founder of the Solstice Project, will present and then discuss her film The Mystery of Chaco Canyon: Unveiling The Ancient Astronomy.
- 2:00 – 3:30 PM – Dr. Cherilynn Morrow, NASA, will present on the Rock of the Sun, a possible recording of the 1097 full eclipse that occurred at Chaco Canyon
- 4:00 – 5:00 PM – David Greenwald, Director of Jornada Research Institute, will discuss how the great kiva at Creekside Village in Tularosa Canyon was used as an astronomical observatory.
Please note: The regularly scheduled Giant Screen Films or live star shows will not take place during the event.