New Mexico is famous for its dark skies, high altitude, and wide open spaces, making it a perfect place for stargazing, space research, rocket launches, and UFO stories. Its strong connection to space can be seen across its land, history, and culture.
One of the best ways to explore this is by taking the New Mexico Space Trail. This road trip includes 52 space-related sites, from ancient rock art to modern labs. Together, they show how important New Mexico has been to space science and exploration.
Places to Visit on the Space Trail
Stargazing and Observatories
New Mexico has very low light pollution, which makes the night sky incredibly clear. There are many observatories where you can see stars, planets, and galaxies through powerful telescopes.
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Visit the University of New Mexico Observatory in Albuquerque or Tombaugh Observatory in Las Cruces for free public viewing nights.
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The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science Planetarium offers guided sky shows.
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The Very Large Array features 27 massive radio antennas used to study space.
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The Sunspot Solar Observatory lets visitors observe the sun up close.
Space and Science Museums
New Mexico has several museums that explain space science, nuclear history, and the Space Race.
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The Bradbury Science Museum in Los Alamos focuses on the Manhattan Project.
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The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History in Albuquerque displays missiles and rockets.
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The New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo showcases rockets, astronaut gear, and space artifacts.
UFO History in Roswell
Roswell is famous for the 1947 UFO incident.
The International UFO Museum & Research Center shares photos, videos, and stories related to UFO sightings and alien theories.
Cold War and Space Race Sites
New Mexico played a major role during World War II and the Cold War.
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The Trinity Site, where the first atomic bomb was tested, opens to visitors once a year.
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The White Sands Missile Range Museum displays historic rockets and missiles.
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Spaceport America, the world’s first commercial spaceport, shows that space travel is still part of New Mexico’s future.
Ancient Rock Art and Astronomy
Ancient Pueblo people recorded celestial events in rock art.
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Chaco Culture National Historical Park has drawings believed to show a supernova.
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The Three Rivers Petroglyph Site features over 21,000 rock carvings along a hiking trail.
How to Plan Your Trip
The Space Trail covers the entire state, so it’s best to choose a few sites and plan your route. Some areas have poor cell service, so carrying a printed map is recommended. Also check which places need advance reservations.
Best Time to Go
Fall is the best season for this road trip. The weather is cooler, crowds are smaller, and you can enjoy reminders like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in October.
Where to Stay, Eat, and Relax
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Albuquerque: Stay at Hotel Andaluz or Hotel Chaco. Eat at Route 66 diners or try local New Mexico food.
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Santa Fe: Known for art and culture. Luxury stays and great local restaurants await.
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Taos: Visit Taos Pueblo, stay at Hotel Willa, and enjoy fresh local food.
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Roswell: Small motels and unique stays like an underground missile silo bunker.
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Truth or Consequences: Famous for hot springs and relaxing spa hotels.