Local astronomy organizations are preparing for a new year of predictable and not so predictable celestial events, offering plenty of opportunities for Las Cruces to join in the fun, and look toward the open New Mexico skies.

NMSU Department of Astronomy

The astronomy department at New Mexico State University has 15 research faculty who delve into a variety of different aspects of astronomy, from the sun and plants to our solar system, stars, galaxies and the structure of the universe.

They operate the Tombaugh Observatory, located on the NMSU campus, as well as the Apache Point observatory in Sun Spot, New Mexico (southeast of Las Cruces in the Sacramento Mountains), a facility with four telescopes.

"The research areas are very diverse," said Dr. Nancy Chanover, associate professor in the department.

In between researching the other-worldly, department faculty teach graduate and undergraduate courses to aspiring astronomers and conducting public outreach and community service.

"We also respond to requests that come to us from various organizations, school groups and local clubs that want to have a hosted education event at the observatory," Chanover said.

Planned upcoming public events at the campus include an open house at 7 p.m., Jan. 18 featuring the a look at the crescent Moon, Orion the Hunter and the Gemini Twins (Castor and Pollux).

For more information on the events, contact the NMSU Astronomy Department at

The Astronomical Society of Las Cruces

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Out'n'About: Las Cruces astronomy clubs offer glimpse into infinity