Rare “Ring of Fire” Solar Eclipse Astounds Visitors at Chaco Canyon
On Saturday, Oct. 14, an extraordinary astronomical event took place above Chaco Culture National Park in New Mexico. A rare “ring of fire” solar eclipse captivated visitors and brought a sense of awe to the ancient site.
Chaco Canyon is renowned for its ancient Puebloan people and their sun-watching traditions, making it the perfect location to witness this celestial phenomenon. Dating back to AD 850 to 1250, the canyon was once a bustling center of activity.
Visitors flocked to the canyon in anticipation of the eclipse, with limited parking spaces available. The excitement was palpable as they eagerly positioned themselves to witness the celestial spectacle.
Adding to the significance of the solar event, the “Rock of the Sun” petroglyph was discovered in 1992. This ancient rock carving is believed to depict a total solar eclipse that occurred on July 11, 1097, making it a remarkable connection to the past.
Cherilynn Morrow, director of NASA’s PUNCH mission, had the privilege of witnessing the eclipse close to the petroglyph. She described the experience as a celebration of the sun and moon joining. As the eclipse unfolded, the canyon experienced a drop in light levels and temperature, creating a dramatic atmosphere that heightened the sense of wonder.
Observers at Casa Rinconada had a clear view of the “ring of fire” eclipse and even witnessed Baily’s beads, a phenomenon where sunlight streams through the lunar mountains and creates a diamond ring effect. Additionally, one observer projected a crescent sun onto the walls of an ancient kiva, showcasing the unique ways in which the Puebloan people may have interacted with eclipses in ancient times.
Chaco Canyon holds great spiritual significance for the descendants of the ancestral Puebloans. Known for its precise alignment to the cardinal directions, the canyon is considered a sacred place. Many individuals, including renowned astrophotographer Mike Shaw, fulfilled their long-held ambition of witnessing the eclipse in a location with deep archeoastronomical significance.
Unfortunately, those who missed the opportunity this time will have to wait for the next total solar eclipse observed from Chaco Canyon. The event will not occur within the lifetimes of those currently present in the canyon, making this experience truly once-in-a-lifetime.
After the eclipse, Chaco Canyon returned to its usual tranquility. Visitors leisurely explored the canyon, searching for petroglyphs and marveling at the beauty of the night sky. It was a reminder of the enduring legacy of the ancient Puebloan people and their connection to the cosmos.
