A sky full of stars and the Milky Way grace the heavens above the adobe ruins at Fort Union. Photo by Harun Mehmedinovic

Fort Union National Monument News:

WATROUS: Fort Union National Monument announces the first Dark Sky program of the season, beginning Saturday May 28. The solitude, remoteness, and arid landscapes of Fort Union National Monument make it an ideal place for observing a natural dark sky.

After sunset, the sky over the high prairie gives way to the glow of celestial bodies unaffected by the artificial light of distant communities. Immerse yourself in the culture and science of a natural night sky as rangers guide visitors through the remains of the old fort, then help identify distant stars and galaxies with the naked eye and telescopes.

Gates to the park re-open at 7:30 p.m. and the program, weather permitting, will be held 9-11 p.m. near the visitors center. The Fort Union National Monument Visitor Center is 8 miles west of Watrous on N.M. 161.

Be sure to bring water and a jacket. To assure the safety of staff and visitors, participants must wear a mask and social distance.

For more information, visit www.nps.gov/foun or call the park at 505.425.8025.