Chaco Canyon: Ancient Observatories

On April 8, a Total Solar Eclipse will travel over Turtle Island. The first location to experience totality will be Mexico's Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. The Moon Shadow will traverse Indian Country, leaving First Nations Territories at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The last Total Solar Eclipse occurred on August 21, 2017. Lunar and solar eclipses are significant celestial events that should always be treated with respect and reverence. When the Sun, Moon, and Earth align, many Indigenous cultures view it as a time of protection, a time for prayer, reflection, and renewal. During an eclipse, some choose to observe with quietude and stay in, while others may fast, make offerings, or sing prayer songs—all minding the stars that guide us on our journey.

Throughout history, mystical tales of love, harmony, and peace have been shared and passed down from generation to generation. These stories include accounts of Sister Moon aligning between Brother Sun and Mother Earth. On April 8, 2024, it is essential to honor such sacred moments with care and consideration for the traditions, protocols, and practices of all our relations.