Astronomical Events Galore

A new county commission district map has been released, addressing concerns brought to San Juan County by the Navajo Nation. Mark your calendars for two astrological events, the third Super Moon of the year, and an annual solar eclipse, both happening this fall. And the Flour Corners Balloon Rally returns the first weekend in October, with morning balloon ascensions, and evening balloon glows. There’s something for everyone. You’re watching “The Local News Roundup,” brought to you by Ace Hardware in Farmington, and The Big Idea Makerspace at San Juan College. I’m Haley Opsal. San Juan County and the Navajo Nation, agreed to a new county commission district map, and was adopted September 13th. The new map provides the Navajo Nation, with a more meaningful opportunity, to elect their candidates of choice, addressing concerns from the previous map. District lines have been redrawn, making it so Native American voters, make up at least a two thirds share, of electorate in districts one and two, rather than a large majority in district one, and a minority in district two. San Juan County and the Navajo Nation, hope the new map will allow them to continue to improve the lines of members of the Navajo Nation, and San Juan County residents. Mark your calendars. The third super moon of the year, and a solar eclipse, will graze the New Mexico sky this fall. September 29th is the new 2023 Super Moon. A Super Moon is when the moon’s orbit brings it closer to the earth, at the same time as a full moon. And while it might not appear larger, it will be brighter. October 14th will be an annular solar eclipse. According to Noah, the eclipse will pass over Farmington around 10:30 AM, as it moves from northwest New Mexico to the southeast. Eclipses happen when the moon phases between the sun and earth. And this one will feature a ring of fire around the moon, as it will only partially obscure the sun. Mark your calendars for the return of the Four Corner Balloon Rally, September 29th through October 1st. Mass Ascensions will take place all three mornings, weather permitting, with afternoon balloon glows, and a concert Saturday night. Get up close and personal, with balloons and pilot, and enjoy the community. Find a full list of events, and locations online. Learn more about these, and other stories online at farmingtonlocal.news. Thank you for watching this edition of “The Local News Roundup.” I’m Haley Opsal.