The Milky Way Galaxy seen over the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array west of Socorro, New Mexico. Credit: NRAO/AUI/NSF, Jeff Hellerman
PEEC NEWS RELEASE
The Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC) invites the community to celebrate the rich astronomical heritage of our state in a special planetarium program, Astronomy in New Mexico, on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 7 to 8 PM at the Los Alamos Nature Center Planetarium.
Blessed with dark skies, sweeping landscapes, and a long tradition of scientific discovery, New Mexico is home to some of the most important astronomical observatories in the world. From major research facilities to campus observatories, amateur astronomy clubs, and cosmic art installations, the state offers a remarkable mix of places dedicated to observing (and contemplating) our night skies.
In this immersive program, astrophysicist Galen Gisler will guide audiences on a planetarium tour of notable astronomical sites across New Mexico, sharing stories, science, and the unique character of each location. This event is for anyone curious about the sky above our home state, including families with children ages 8 and up.
Event Details
Event: Astronomy in New Mexico
Date & Time: February 27, 2026, 7 to 8 PM MT
Location: Los Alamos Nature Center Planetarium
2600 Canyon Rd, Los Alamos, NM 87544
Admission: $6 per child, $8 per adult, or $20 per family
Doors open at 6:45 PM.
Planetarium programs are generally not recommended for children under 5.
About the Program
This visually rich, story‐driven presentation highlights the diversity of astronomical facilities across New Mexico—from world‐renowned observatories to community‐driven stargazing spaces. Attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the state’s role in global astronomy and the many ways New Mexicans engage with the night sky.
About the Presenter
Galen Gisler was born under the dark skies of eastern New Mexico and eventually returned to his home state after traveling the world to pursue astrophysics and observatory work. In 1981, he began a 25‐year career at Los Alamos National Laboratory, contributing to research in extragalactic jets, particle beams, plasmas, astronomical transients, adaptive processing, and hydrocode simulations of impacts and tsunamis.
Now semi‐retired, Galen continues to work as an Associate at LANL, focusing on
planetary defense and strategies for protecting Earth from asteroid impacts.
For more information, visit PEEC’s website at peecnature.org/events. Stay connected on social media for updates on each week’s activities.