19/12/2024
Half the park is after dark, even in winter! The lack of light pollution, high elevation, and extra dry winter air allow for some spectacular stargazing in this . Here are some to experience the night in winter:
· The Sun sets early, so you don’t have to wait until 10:00 to see stars. In December, the Sun sets before 5:00, and it is usually fully dark by 6:30pm.
· The brightest part of the Milky Way is below the horizon in winter, so only a faint portion is visible. However, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn are all visible at various times of the evening this December. The most recognizable winter constellation besides the Big Dipper is Orion (pictured), viewed as a hunter with a bow in
many cultures throughout the world. Download a free phone app to point out constellations and planets.
· Temperatures drop quickly once it gets dark. It’s not uncommon for there to be a 25°F temperature swing between day and night, so dress in warm layers. The average low temperature in December is 11°F at the dunes elevation, with single digits commonly occurring. However, the coldest air settles on the San Luis Valley floor, with subzero temperatures common. Check the forecast on our weather page before visiting.
https://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/weather.htm
· To see the most stars, plan for a night with no moon or a later moonrise time. A link to a moon calendar and many other general nighttime tips are on our Experience the Night page:
https://www.nps.gov/grsa/planyourvisit/experiencethenight.htm
Photo: NPS/Patrick Myers
Image description: The constellation Orion is a grouping of stars generally outlining the figure of a hunter with a bow. A tall dune is illuminated in soft moonlight below.