VLA Open House: Celebrating 70 Years of NRAO

Date: October 10, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array, 50 miles west of Socorro, NM (off U.S. Route 60) Old Hwy 60, Magdalena, NM 87825
Cost: Free — advance timed-entry tickets required

Join the National Radio Astronomy Observatory for a special open house marking 70 years since NRAO's founding in 1956. Explore the iconic Very Large Array through guided tours, expert talks, and hands-on activities for all ages.

What to expect:

• Guided tours led by NRAO scientists and engineers, departing every half hour
• Talks tracing seven decades of discovery, from NRAO's earliest telescopes to today's Very Large Array and the next-generation VLA (ngVLA) prototype
• A look at what's next for radio astronomy as NRAO builds toward its next 70 years
• Family-friendly activities, hands-on science demos and more
• Local food trucks on site
• Gift shop open all day

Good to know:

• Elevation is around 7,000 ft — dress for variable weather, and bring sun protection
• Restrooms available on-site
• Visit our Visit the VLA Page for more information