Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Explore Nuclear Science & History in Albuquerque
Founded in 1969, we are the nation's only congressionally chartered museum dedicated to nuclear science and history. As a Smithsonian Affiliate and American Alliance of Museums-accredited institution, we preserve and present the story of the Atomic Age through dynamic exhibits and educational programs. Our mission is to inspire curiosity about nuclear science's historical, medical, and technological impacts. Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, we operate daily with a focus on accessibility, offering hands-on learning experiences for students, families, and researchers. Our Heritage Park outdoor exhibit showcases historic aircraft and missiles, while rotating exhibits explore connections between science fiction and real-world innovation.We maintain rigorous safety standards and federal compliance, ensuring a secure environment for visitors and collections. Through partnerships like the Atomic Heritage Foundation, we expand public access to Manhattan Project history via oral archives and digital resources. Our team of educators and volunteers delivers STEM-focused programs, including camps and field trips tailored to curriculum needs. With 361 annual operating days, we serve as a hub for scientific exploration and historical reflection. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our affiliations, community outreach, and dedication to preserving nuclear legacy for future generations.
Services
Nuclear History Exhibits
STEM Education Programs
Heritage Park Outdoor Displays
Science Camps
Field Trips
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- We are the only congressionally chartered nuclear history museum in the United States
- Our Smithsonian Affiliate status ensures access to premier historical resources
- Heritage Park features the largest public display of historic aircraft in New Mexico
- We offer STEM-focused educational programs aligned with school curricula
- Our partnership with the Atomic Heritage Foundation preserves Manhattan Project history
Associations and certifications
- American Alliance of Museums
Services
Nuclear History Exhibits
Our permanent and rotating exhibits explore nuclear development from early research to modern applications. Visitors examine artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations tracing atomic energy's impact on warfare, medicine, and technology. The museum's collection includes Cold War-era equipment and educational materials explaining radiation science principles.
STEM Education Programs
We deliver curriculum-aligned STEM programs for grades K-12 through field trips, camps, and outreach initiatives. Our educators use hands-on experiments to demonstrate physics, engineering, and nuclear science concepts. The Junior Docent Program trains teens in science communication while developing leadership skills through museum interpretation.
Heritage Park Outdoor Displays
This nine-acre outdoor exhibit features historic military aircraft, missiles, and a nuclear submarine sail. Visitors explore decommissioned planes like the B-29 Superfortress and learn about their roles in nuclear deterrence. Shaded picnic areas and interpretive signage create an educational family experience connecting aviation history with technological innovation.
Special Event Hosting
Our facility accommodates weddings, corporate events, and conferences with museum access after hours. Event spaces include the Atomic Age Ballroom and outdoor areas adjacent to aircraft displays. Clients receive customized event planning support while providing guests unique access to nuclear history exhibits and educational programming.
Research & Archival Access
Scholars access our collections of technical documents, oral histories, and Manhattan Project materials through appointment-based research services. The museum partners with academic institutions to preserve primary sources while making select resources available digitally through our online archives and Atomic Heritage Foundation collaborations.
Questions
What are the museum's operating hours?
We're open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including most holidays except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Are admission prices different for residents?
New Mexico residents receive discounted rates with valid photo ID showing a state address.
What educational programs do you offer for schools?
We provide customized field trips, STEM kits, and EdVentures programs aligned with state and national science standards for grades K-12.
Can I host events at the museum?
Yes, we offer venue rental for weddings, conferences, and private events with after-hours access to exhibits.
Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Non-flash photography is permitted in most exhibit areas for personal use, but commercial photography requires prior approval.
Do you have volunteer opportunities?
We offer diverse volunteer roles including docent programs, event support, and restoration projects with training provided.
Videos
