Astrogeology for Educators

Explore the rocky landscapes of the Moon, Mars, and other solar system locations... right in your terrestrial backyard... New Mexico! 

• White Sands National Park is the most space-visible landform over the American southwest. It is also an analog to the massive sand dune fields on Mars, Venus, Saturn’s moon Titan, and even Pluto.
• Valley of Fires Recreation Area at the Carrizozo Lava Flow is easily visible to private astronauts. This is also the 2nd-youngest lava flow in the continental US at “only” 5,200 years old. Run your finger on the ropy pahoehoe lava, explore lava tubes and deep fissures. Feel like you’re visiting the ancient volcanoes on the Moon, Mars, and even the giant asteroid Vesta.
• Kilbourne Hole Volcanic Maar Crater is where lava flashed groundwater to steam. Hunt for green olivine mantle xenoliths—literally alien rocks!

Visit Spaceport America, where private astronauts depart Earth with Virgin Galactic. Be inspired to adapt your experience to classroom activities simulating Apollo and Artemis moonwalks by astronauts. And… have more fun than your peers in teacher continuing education. This is much better than another online course!*

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This is a one-time special event with astrogeologist Dr. Kirby Runyon, and space educator Dr. Mark Wagner. Register NOW to be sure you don't miss out!

Your ticket INCLUDES the complete experience with bus transportation and meals.**

* NOTE: Final agenda subject to change based on evolving mission schedules, road conditions, weather, and other unavoidable factors. Agenda will be optimized for current conditions to provide the best experience possible when the dates arrive. Currently we have a STEM education tour of Spaceport America and Virgin Galactic on Friday the 27th. Saturday we expect to visit the Space History Museum, Carrizozo lava flow, and White Sands National Park. Sunday plans include Kilbourne Hole Maar Crater and Aden Volcanic Crater. Register now to ensure your participation in the adventure!

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** NOTE: If you require lodging, please book your own room in the discounted "Astrogeology for Educators" block at the Holiday Inn Express El Paso North. Be sure to book the night of October 26 because we start at 7 AM Friday morning. The experience will conclude by 5 PM on October 29th, but you may book that night as well if you wish to travel home on the 30th. The cutoff date for the discounted rate at the hotel is October 12, 2023.