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Major Lunar Standstill Viewing at Chimney Rock National Monument

This September night event will be held at the Chimney Rock National Monument Amphitheater

to explore the current Major Lunar Standstill at this important Native American site and its

relationship to Stonehenge and other worldwide locations. The late-night presentation will

feature telescopes and stargazing under the Monument's majestic dark skies; presentations on

astronomy, archaeology and culture from leading experts; Native American music; light

refreshments for purchase; and, most importantly, a live-streamed viewing of the 3rd quarter

Moon rising between the natural pinnacles. Chimney Rock National Monument is one of just a

few places on Earth where the Moon rises between two natural rock pillars during a MLS.

Most people are familiar with the Moon's cycle and how it changes its shape from crescent to

full, as well as changing its rising position along the horizon. But, unknown to many, the Moon

has a much longer cycle called the Major Lunar Standstill (MLS). Every 18-19 years, the

Moon's tilted orbit aligns with the Earth's axis, bringing it to its farthest Northern or Southern

rising position. At Chimney Rock National Monument, during this Major Lunar Standstill

alignment, the Moon dramatically rises between the impressive rock pinnacles — Companion

Rock and Chimney Rock. It is a timely, but very short-lived event when this amazing alignment

happens. A thousand years ago, when the Ancient Puebloan people built the Great House and

ceremonial spaces at Chimney Rock, they did so with a purpose – as many of today’s scholars

believe – to view this rare and spectacular event.

Pricing

Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for ages 5-12, and free to those under 5. Making a reservation

through the Recreation.gov website or the call center (877-444-6777) is the only way to

guarantee a spot for this program since seating is limited. Recreation.gov charges a $1

reservation fee that is non-refundable. Reservations will be cut off 12 hours prior to the start of

the program. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space is available and can be purchased at the

Gift Shop during the check-in time for each date. Tickets are $25 and will be sold on a first

come, first served basis. Be sure to check the Recreation.gov website to make sure the event is

not sold out before you come as a walk-in. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.

Since we have no control over the weather and cannot guarantee the Moon’s sighting at the

exact time of the MLS, a refund will not be issued in the unfortunate event the moonrise

between the pillars is not visible. All other Amphitheater programs will continue as scheduled.

This MLS event may be modified or canceled due to weather or conditions outside of our

control. If the event is modified due to weather, no refunds will be issued for any reason. If

canceled, refunds can only be issued by contacting Recreation.gov which issued the

reservation.

Tuesday, September 24, 2024 9:00 PM - Wednesday, September 25, 2024 12:30 AM (MDT)

Check-in time on September 24, 2024 starting at 9:00 p.m.