5-14-2025 2:09am

David Greenwald Lecture Digging Up Ancient Astronomy in the Desert Southwest

Chris Edwards Editor

Explore how ancient New Mexico communities aligned with the stars at the New Mexico Museum of Space History’s upcoming Launch Pad Lecture Archaeoastronomy Associations of the Great Kiva at Creekside Village

David Greenwald’s presentation will focus on the Jornada Mogollon agricultural community (A.D. 600-900) and their use of astronomy in daily life. Excavations have revealed a large, great kiva aligned with the eastern horizon, allowing observation of solstice, equinox sunrises, and other celestial events. "Creekside Village was both a scientific and spiritual hub," Greenwald notes, highlighting how its residents used celestial events to guide crucial survival decisions such as planting, harvesting, rituals, and water management. Creekside also showcased advanced irrigation systems and numerous pit houses, indicating a well-organized society.

As the President of the Jornada Research Institute with over 50 years in archeology, David Greenwald has authored over 1,000 archaeological publications and presentations, focusing on how ancient peoples integrated architecture, agriculture, and astronomy into their cultural landscapes.

Event Details:

When: Friday, June 6, 2025, 9:00–10:00 a.m.
Where: New Horizons Dome Theater, New Mexico Museum of Space History
Admission: Free; coffee and donuts provided

The New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo is a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. A Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum showcases the significant role New Mexico has played in the development of the U.S. Space Program and features the International Space Hall of Fame, and New Horizons Dome Theater.

For more information, please contact the museum at (575) 437-2840 or visit our website at www.nmspacemuseum.org.

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