On August 19, 2013 Chaco Culture was officially designated an International Dark Sky Park, and you can see why with this image. "Chaco has long been considered by many night sky enthusiasts to be one of the best places in America to stargaze. Today, amidst this ancient landscape, visitors can experience the same dark sky that the Chacoans observed a thousand years ago. The protection of dark night skies is a priority at Chaco not only for the enjoyment of star-gazing visitors, but for the natural environment as well. Nocturnal wildlife relies on darkness for survival, and the natural rhythms of humans and plants depend on an unaltered night sky. By designating over 99% of the park as a 'natural darkness zone', in which no permanent outdoor lighting exists, Chaco is ensuring the preservation of these nocturnal ecosystems."