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May 17 – 23, 2012
Journey through the enchanted lands of the Anasazi, the Hopi and the Navajo to view the annular eclipse on May 20, 2012. Touring such iconic astronomical sites as Lowell Observatory, the Arizona meteor crater, and the Very Large Array.
Explore the beautiful Southwest at Oak Creek Canyon, Zuni and Acoma Pueblos, and Canyon de Chelly, with its sheer red cliffs and innumerable prehistoric Indian dwellings.
Tour includes:
- Roundtrip air from selected USA gateways
- 6 nights accommodations as listed
- Meals: Breakfasts daily, 4 lunches, 1 picnic, 4 dinners
- Land transportation via motor coach
- Guided tour with Navajo guide
- Admissions included
- Sightseeing Highlights with guides
- Oak Creek Canyon
- Lowell Observatory
- Arizona Meteor Crater
- Hubbell Trading Post
- Canyon de Chelly National Park
- Zuni Pueblo
- VLA and Socorro
- Acoma Pueblo
- Sky City Cultural Center
- Old Town Albuquerque
- Stargazing
- Distinguished Lecturers:
- Dennis Mammana, Sky Photographer
- Rich Talcott, Astronomy magazine
- Eclipse viewing glasses provided
ITINERARY
Thursday, May 17, 2012 Phoenix – Flagstaff, Arizona
Today the journey begins to the enchanted lands of the Anasazi, the Hopi and the Navajo. On route to Flagstaff, we will drive through spectacular 12 mile-long chasm of Oak Creek Canyon. Tonight meet the lecturers at the Welcome Dinner.
Embassy Suites (D)
Friday, May 18, 2012 Flagstaff, Arizona
Astronomical lectures this morning to prepare for the annular eclipse and our visit to Lowell Observatory. This afternoon we head to the iconic Lowell Observatory where we will explore the history and current research of Lowell. Tonight we will view through a variety of telescopes including Percival Lowell's 24" Alvan Clark refractor and experience interactive live presentations. (B/L/D)
Saturday, May 19, 2012 Flagstaff – Chinle, Arizona
Our first stop this morning will be the Arizona Meteor Crater, 2.4 miles in circumference and more than 550 feet deep. Time to view the film "Collisions and Impacts" and experience the thunderous sound and explosive fury of the impact 50,000 years ago. The tour continues north to the oldest, continuously operating trading post of the Navajo Nations, the Hubbell Trading Post.
Holiday Inn (B/L)
Sunday, May 20, 2012 Eclipse Day
After breakfast explore Canyon de Chelly, where sheer sandstone walls rise up to 1,000 feet, several scenic overlooks, many well-preserved ruins. The pre-historic Anasazi, the Hopi and the Navajo all dwelled here. Canyon de Chelly National Monument is now entirely Navajo tribal trust land with a resident community within the canyons. Take a look at the present day life of the Navajo, who still inhabit and cultivate the valley floor. A lunch is provided before we head to the eclipse-viewing site to set up cameras and telescopes. After sunset return to the hotel. (B/L/Picnic)
Monday, May 21, 2012 Chinle, Arizona – Albuquerque, New Mexico
In route to Albuquerque we continue south to Socorro and the Very Large Array, one of the world's premier astronomical radio observatories, consisting of 27 radio antennas on the Plains of San Agustin. Each antenna is 85 feet in diameter set on railroad tracks laid out in a Y. The data from the antennas is combined electronically to give the resolution of an antenna 22 miles across, with the sensitivity of the dish 422 feet in diameter.
Hampton Inn (B/L/D)
Tuesday, May 22, 2012 Albuquerque, New Mexico
This morning we will venture up to mesa of the Sky Village of Acoma, established in the 1100's and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. Meet the artists of the highly prized Acoma pottery. This afternoon enjoy Old Town Albuquerque with its art galleries and shops before a wine tasting and farewell dinner. (B/D)
Wednesday, May 23, 2012 Albuquerque, New Mexico – Home
Transfer to the airport or extend your stay in Albuquerque for a side trip to Santa Fe and Taos and perhaps a hot air balloon ride. (B)
For
a general interest form, and registration, please contact MWT Associates
at tours@melitatrips.com
or visit their website at www.melitatrips.com
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note, individuals who sign up for a trip with reference to
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