Courtesy photo

Fort Union National Monument News:

Watrous – Fort Union National Monument is hosting a Dark Sky program Saturday night June 25. Gates to the park open at 7:30 p.m. and the formal program, weather permitting, runs 9-11 p.m. near the visitors center.

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 around the stars and galaxies with the naked eye and telescopes.

The hours before and during sunset are ideal for photography and dinner picnicking. Please bring water and a jacket for the night sky program. For additional information, please contact the Monument at 505.425.8025, ext. 0. If the weather appears dubious on the night of the program, please telephone the park for a last-minute update on the status of the program.

Fort Union National Monument Visitor Center, 8 miles west of Watrous on N.M. 161. For more information visit www.nps.gov/foun or by contacting the park at 505.425.8025.