On November 21, 2024, UNM-Taos held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Cielo Centro amphitheater on Klauer Campus in Northern New Mexico. This event marks the start of a project focused on education, culture, and community use. The goal is to create a space where art, science, and local heritage are accessible to students and residents.
The center will feature an amphitheater, observatory, classrooms, and outdoor learning areas. These facilities are intended to connect people to the local environment and astronomy. The observatory will include a Dobsonian telescope donated by the King and Ogglesbee family. Pland Collaborative, led by Sam Sterling and Samantha Swavely, designed the project with attention to the local setting.
Supporters of the project include Dr. Colin Nicholls, Senator Roberto Gonzales, and Representative Kristina Ortez. They helped advance the project at the state level. The project also involves El Valle Astronomers and dark sky advocates to help protect the area’s night skies. The ceremony recognized Jacob Torres, a local contributor to NASA’s ‘Chiles in Space’ project, as an example for students interested in science and technology careers…