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Museum · Alamogordo, New Mexico
New Mexico Museum of Space History
Museum in a five-story golden building on a hill in Alamogordo, about the history of rockets and space exploration, with a space hall of fame and an outdoor rocket park.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About New Mexico Museum of Space History
The New Mexico Museum of Space History sits on a hill in eastern Alamogordo in a five-story building with a gold-glass facade, opened in 1976. It tells the story of rockets and space travel, highlighting New Mexico’s role: rocket testing in the White Sands area after World War II and the pioneers who worked in the region.
The museum houses the International Space Hall of Fame, honoring people from various countries connected to space exploration. Exhibits show rocket engines, satellites, spacesuits and the story of the chimpanzee Ham and other animals that flew in test missions; Ham is buried in the museum gardens.
Outside, the John P. Stapp Air and Space Park displays rockets and launch vehicles, including a Little Joe II used in Apollo program tests, and the Sonic Wind rocket-sled, which tested the limits of the human body under high acceleration. Nearby, a large-screen planetarium and theater offer shows about space.
From the hill, you can see the Tularosa Basin and, in the distance, the white band of the White Sands dunes.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours.
Best time
In the morning, before heading to White Sands in the afternoon.
How to get there
It sits atop a hill in eastern Alamogordo, off Road 2001, with parking on site.
Tip
Start at the top floor and work your way down: the route is designed that way. Check the planetarium showtimes.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about New Mexico Museum of Space History
What to see at the Alamogordo space museum?
The Space Hall of Fame, the exhibits on rockets, satellites and spacesuits, the outdoor rocket park and the planetarium.
Why does Alamogordo have a space museum?
Because the White Sands region was one of the United States’ rocket-testing centers after World War II, and many space-exploration pioneers worked there.
How much time to allow for the Alamogordo space museum?
Two to three hours with the rocket park; add another hour if you go to the planetarium.