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.
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.
On Monday, Oct. 21, Chimney Rock National Monument will host a live event at the amphitheater to explore the current major lunar standstill at this important Native American site and its relationship to Stonehenge and other worldwide locations.
This 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 waning gibbous moon rising between the natural pinnacles.
Chimney Rock National Monument is one of a few places on Earth where the moon rises between two natural rock pillars during a major lunar standstill.
Because access to the upper area of the monument requires strict restrictions for safety concerns, this event will be held in the accessible, outdoor amphitheater near the Visitor Center. And there — after a wonderful program preceding the event — the long-awaited and anticipated rise of the moon between the pinnacles will be shared via satellite from our crew on the upper mesa.
Check-in is at the Visitor Center parking lot from 8 to 8:45 p.m., with concessions and stargazing. The gate will be locked at 8:45 p.m. Live presentations in the amphitheater will begin at 9 p.m. The program should conclude about 10:20 p.m., after the moonrise.
Please dress warmly and consider bringing blankets and cushions for your comfort on the stone seats. Please leave your dogs at home. No dogs are allowed at this event, with the exception of service dogs who are trained to assist a person with a disability. No alcohol, smoking/vaping, or drugs — only a “once in a lifetime” experience to be had in our beautiful natural setting.
Join us in celebrating this rare event — the next major lunar standstill won’t happen for another 18 years. Since we have no control over the weather and cannot guarantee the moon’s sighting at the exact time of the major lunar standstill, 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 major lunar standstill 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.
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 nonrefundable. 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. 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.