VLA Open House – Spring 2026

 Location: Very Large Array (50 miles west of Socorro, NM)
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026
Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm MDT
Admission: Free (advance tickets required)

Event Overview

Join us for our annual Spring Open House at one of the world’s most iconic astronomical observatories! The Very Large Array (VLA) Open House invites science enthusiasts, families, and explorers of all ages to experience radio astronomy up close.

This free community event features guided tours, hands-on activities, expert talks, and delicious food from local vendors.

Highlights

 Guided Tours

• Led by NRAO scientists and engineers
• Every 30 minutes from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

 Guest Talks

• 1000 – The Next Generation Very Large Array
• 1100 - Joe McMullin, Assistant Director, New Mexico Operations – “Radio Astronomy in New Mexico.”
• 1200 - Jill Malusky, News & Public Information Manager – ‘The Very Large Co‑Star: NRAO Telescopes on Screen”
• 1300 - Dana Dunbar, ngVLA Antenna Lead, - The Next Generation Very Large Array
• 1400 - Joe McMullin, Assistant Director, New Mexico Operations – “Radio Astronomy in New Mexico.”
• 1500 - Jill Malusky, News & Public Information Manager – ‘The Very Large Co‑Star: NRAO Telescopes on Screen”
•  

 Food Trucks

Enjoy local flavors with on-site vendors:

• Red Wagon Coffee Co – https://www.facebook.com/RedWagonCoffeeCompany/  

  Marts Mexican and More – https://www.facebook.com/MartsMexicanandMore/ 

  Sancho’s Hot Rod Kitchen – https://www.facebook.com/people/Sanchos-hot-rod-kitchen/61586282415047/ 

 Family Activities

Fun, hands-on science and art for kids of all ages:

• UltraViolet Bracelets!
• DIY Kaelediscope!
• Straw Rockets!
• Make Your Own Button of Famous Radio Sources!

Visitor Information

• Tickets: Required in advance (free of charge).
• Parking: Managed onsite—plan to arrive early.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and a sense of curiosity!