Milky Way shines over saguaros at Picacho Peak, Arizona

The Lagoon and Eagle Nebulas are the red spots on the center-right of the photograph, indicating the central portion of our Milky Way Galaxy. Picacho Peak was often used as a landmark by early explorers, mentioned in the 17th century, by Jesuit priest Father Kino. In 1846, the Mormon Battalion, on their way to fight in the war with Mexico, constructed a wagon road through Picacho Peak. The forty-niners traveled the same road on their way to California. The most significant Civil War battle in Arizona took place near Picacho Peak in 1862.