Everyone must visit this site. Even bring the kiddos! There are plenty of things for the kids with interactive displays
It is just like in the movie Contact. The discs are huge & rather a ballet act as they change position.
The drive to the middle of nowhere to see this amazing place was well worth it. I learned so much and had no idea this was part of a worldwide network. I new of it from the movie contact. The lady in the gift shop was very helpful and I enjoyed the walking tour
There are 27 dish antennas each about 25 meters in diameter that scan the cosmic skies for unusual discoveries as well as scientific data of the atmosphere and galaxies. This is truly a scientific marvel that has found a home in the vast plains of New Mexico. The movie that gives the most information about the VLA project is about 23 minutes long. This particular set of VLAs has been in at least 7 different Hollywood movies. There is a display regarding the making of some of these movies. Patrons can walk along a self guided tour to get an idea of how large these telescopes are and how they are maintained. You can even go to their website for more information about the capabilities and nature of maintaining and information from these astrological wonders.
We intentionally planned the route of our cross country trip to allow for a stop here. With all the major historical sites we took our three teenage sons to, this one really excited them. There really isn't a lot to do there, but it is awesome to see from a distance and close up. Be sure to watch the film in the visitor center before embarking on the self-guided tour.
Excellent side trip. Very educational and I learned a lot. Great place for kids of all. I enjoyed the self - guided tout, but only drawback was that there were no people to get questions answered.
This was our second visit here in 10 years. I was just as amazed as I was 10 years ago of the technology. It is good to see our government upgrade existing technology rather than scrap it. The exhibits can take you as deep into the technology as you want to go. They are designed for the novice and expert as well. Our visits always generate great conversations between us!
Tour the VLA and see how they move the "telescope" around on railroad tracks. This isolated spot is perfect for star gazing too if you happen to be there after dark.
The railroad that they use to move the dishes is amazing, and the dishes are awesome. A must see. The outdoor exhibits are great
The VLA (very large array) has been in quite a few films the most famous was with Jodie Foster in "Contact" . Do not expect a Smithsonian type visitors center but it is well down with a small gift shop and an auditorium with seating for about 30. The documentary is about 20 minutes and very informative.It is located 60 from Socorro NM which is close to Bosque del Apache the bird wildlife sanctuary. It was a good hour spent there enroutee to AZ from Socorro.