A look into the Archeoastronomical connection between Chaco Culture National Historical Park and Chimney Rock National Monument.
Chimney Rock Interpretive Association (CRIA) is proud to present a viewing of The Mystery of Chaco Canyon on Saturday, September 16th at CRIA Amphitheater. Chimney Rock National Monument is a unique place to feel the special connection between Chimney Rock and Chaco Canyon. More than 1,000 years ago the skies threaded these people together. Why? It is a question that still remains after years of study, but also one that invites answers. The award winning film, The Mystery of Chaco Canyon, by Anna Sofaer reveals the brilliant astronomy of the ancient Puebloans and how buildings were located and oriented to the sun and the moon to highlight these complex relationships.This is the long-awaited sequel to Anna Sofaer's classic film The Sun Dagger, which changed our perception of America's earliest Native Americans, is narrated by Robert Redford and produced by the Soltice Project.
Before the viewing of the film, Dr. Erica Ellingson, Professor at University of Colorado, Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences, will give special presentation. Her conversation about the connections between Chaco and Chimney Rock will be the springboard for our understanding of the ancients' dependence upon the skies. So simple. So complex. An enigma even today. Dr. Ellingston is an astrophysicist who delights in using telescopes large and small, in space and at observatories around the world. Her work includes investigating galaxy clusters, the evolution of galaxies, black holes, and the mysterious cosmological forces of dark matter and dark energy. Her research also includes historical and archaeo-astronomy, and she is an editor with the international Journal of Skyscape Archeology. She also teaches and produces educational programs at the Fiske Planetarium at the University of Colorado and is an astronomical consultant with the US National Park Service.
This special program is on Saturday, September 16 at the Amphitheater. Gate opens at 6:00 pm. Dr. Ellingson will speak at 6:30 pm. The Mystery of Chaco Canyon will be shown after the lecture. Tickets are available online or at the door. Adults are $15 (ages 13 and older) and $8 (ages 6-12). Kids 5 years and younger are free.
For your comfort bring something soft to sit on, a jacket and a flashlight.
Light refreshments will be available for purchase. The Gift Shop will be open.