The New Mexico Mission: Returning Home

In this final "transition" episode, Eric (The Astropotamus) packs his bags and heads home from the Land of Enchantment. Returning with dozens of hours of audio from the deep heart of the Southwest, he pauses to reflect on the voices recorded, the connections made, and the shared Rituals that anchored this mission.

"I am a time traveler, and I'm leaving New Mexico not the same person who arrived."

Coming soon to the Star River:

• The Builders: Impromptu conversations with the VLA rail and maintenance crews.
• The Visionaries: Deep dives with the scientists and controllers of the VLA, VLBA, and MROI.
• The Historians: A pilgrimage to the Magdalena Astronomical Lyceum.
• The Navigators: Future-facing science at the LWA and UNM Observatory.
• The Ancestors: Reflections on the final Gathering of Nations Powwow after 46 years.

Whether you are a backyard imager, a professional radio astronomer, or a dreamer following the drums, join Eric as he re-joins his "normal" life after a transformational experience on the Star River. Episodes resume once this massive amount of audio has been edited into the stories they deserve.

There are a few surprises along the way as well, some of which are simply *amazing*. Please join us in the River for these episodes; you won't want to miss them!

Connect with the Current:

• Official Episode Website: https://thestarriver.com/episodes/land-of-enchantment
• Join the Conversation: Call 855-DEEP-SKY to share your Star River story, ask my guest a question, or leave feedback for the Astropotamus.
• Follow the Journey: Find on social media @Astropotamus.

Until the next bend in the River, clear skies, and I'll see you in the dark!

Topics & Keywords: Astronomy, VLA, Very Large Array, New Mexico, Astrophotography, Science Communication, Indigenous Astronomy, Gathering of Nations, Radio Astronomy, Finger Lakes Wine, Space Philosophy.