NRAO Very Large Array — Attraction in Socorro

Yes, this is mostly a nerd-stop, but it is sooo cool! This is an array of dozens of radio telescopes ("dishes"), each about 60' in diameter, and spread out along a 'Y'-shaped railroad track that spans many miles (so they can be moved as needed) in the middle of the New Mexico desert. These radio telescopes have sometimes been used to contact a distant US space probe in the past, but are mostly used in the study of radio sources throughout the universe. Their contribution to our knowledge base about the universe cannot be overstated.

The area here is flat, mostly desolate of vegetation except dry scrub, and is ringed-in by distant mountain ranges (this was done purposely, as the mountains help to shield the sensitive radio telescopes from spurious and strong terrestrial radio signals that would overwhelm the faint radio signals from distant objects in space.)

For this same reason, you are reminded to turn off cell phones and any other electronic device that might emit radio signals. However, this request did not appear to be strictly enforced; a researcher who works there told me that with newer software used to record the faint signals, it is pretty good at detecting and removing the 'trash' signals emitted by anything electronic, such as cell phones, digital cameras, etc. They do ask that you put your cell phone into airplane mode, or turn it off completely. But DSLR's were used throughout the grounds by tourists without reproach, and other visitors were using their cell phones to record pictures and video.

My stay here was only a few hours so I couldn't avail myself to all that I otherwise might have; the historical movie, the gift shop, and a few other places will have to be reviewed by others. Many visitors are also aware that parts of the movie 'Contact' with Jodie Foster (released in 1997) were filmed here.

But the high-desert landscape here is picturesque, especially with the many large white 'dishes' that rise above the level ground, with nothing else around for miles! It makes for very interesting photo ops. The staff here is small, but friendly as you could hope for, and this place is unique in the world.

Drive time is about one hour west of Socorro, NM, and about two hours from Albuquerque, with some beautiful desert scenery along the way, so keep your camera handy.

I'd recommend keeping water with you as you explore the VLA, and, especially in the summer, to wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck from the sun, which is noticeably more intense here at this higher elevation, than sea-level South Florida where I live.

Definitely recommended-- spend part of a relaxing day here, and...

The Very Large Array is absolutely awe-inspiring. Standing among the giant radio telescopes in the wide-open plains of New Mexico is an unforgettable experience. The scale of the dishes is breathtaking, and seeing them aligned across the horizon feels like stepping into a science fiction movie — except it’s real cutting-edge science happening right in front of you.

The visitor center is excellent, with informative exhibits that explain the VLA’s role in astronomy and the discoveries it has contributed to. The 20-minute film shown in the theater is time very well spent — engaging, educational, and inspiring. The self-guided walking tour lets you get remarkably close to the antennas, and the sheer engineering precision behind them is impressive. Staff and volunteers are welcoming, knowledgeable, and happy to answer questions.

The gift shop is also a highlight, offering a large variety of unique items — perfect for both space enthusiasts and casual visitors who want to take home a piece of the experience.

If you’re anywhere near central New Mexico, this is a must-see. Whether you’re fascinated by space, science, or just want to experience something truly unique, the Very Large Array delivers on every level.

This is the only facility of its kind on Earth, making it a truly one-of-a-kind...

Talk about living a childhood memory. Although the VLA was quiet and almost no one else there when I popped in on a Monday afternoon, it actually added a little more to the magic of being there. I learned two things in the nearly two hours of visiting.

First, movies and such take some liberties with how the VLA works...scientists don't sit around and listen for signals coming in. The VLA interprets radio light into visual images across the spectrum, and can be re-arranged into close and spread configurations to bring different aspects of what is observed into focus and to help create stunning images of the universe. Sorry folks, I wish we could hear signals relayed from Vega to provide instruction on how to travel faster than the speed of light, but it doesn't quite work that way.

Second, more people need to explore and support this wonderful facility. I'm hoping there was virtually no one there because it was late on a Monday afternoon, and although what I described above is about the extent to how I understand the content of the data interpretation (waaaay above my intellect), it's a vital part of how we perceive the universe. Please come and see this facility, and if you can make it out to this dry ancient lake bed between Dital and Magdalena and experience the...