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To inspire and educate, to promote and preserve, and to honor the pioneers of space exploration.
To bring the history of mankind’s exploration of air and space to New Mexico and to show the world New Mexico’s key role in mankind’s past, present and future pursuit of the frontiers of air and space.
The New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo is a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, under the leadership of the Governor’s Commission to the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Programs and exhibits are supported by the International Space Hall of Fame Foundation through the generous support of donors.
Dedicated October 5, 1976, as the International Space Hall of Fame, the New Mexico Museum of Space History’s mission is to inspire and educate, to promote and preserve, and to honor the pioneers of space exploration.
A Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), and stresses the significant role that the state of New Mexico has played in the development of the U.S. Space Program through collecting, preserving, and interpreting significant artifacts relevant to the history of space. The museum campus facility includes: the Museum of Space History, International Space Hall of Fame, John P. Stapp Air & Space Park, Daisy Track, Clyde W. Tombaugh Education Center, New Horizons Dome Theater and Planetarium, Astronaut Memorial Garden, Hubbard Space Science Research Building, and Museum Support Center.
3198 State Route 2001 | Alamogordo, NM 88310 (Mailing: PO Box 5430, Alamogordo, NM 88311-5430)
For more information: (575) 437-2840 or toll-free 1-877-333-6589.
Hours 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday and Wednesday-Saturday, Noon – 5:00 p.m. Sunday (closed Tuesday), closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Events, news releases and images about activities at the New Mexico Museum of Space History and other divisions in the Department of Cultural Affairs can be accessed at media.newmexicoculture.org
Created in 1978 by the New Mexico Legislature, the Department of Cultural Affairs represents New Mexico’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the cultural integrity and diversity of our state. The Department oversees a broad range of New Mexico’s arts and cultural heritage agencies. These include 15 divisions representing a variety of programs and services.
Among its primary functions is the management of the largest state-sponsored museum system in the country. Additional divisions of the Department support the unique cultural, historical, and artistic heritage of the state as well as the operations of the Department.
Smithsonian Affiliations is a national outreach program that develops long-term partnerships with museums and educational organizations. Through the Affiliate network, the Smithsonian shares collections, exhibitions, and research expertise with affiliated partners so that local communities can experience the Smithsonian in their neighborhoods. Smithsonian Affiliations also reaches across the country with special educational programs designed for museums, schools, and centers serving learners of all ages.
AAM Accreditation is a seal of approval from the museum field that recognizes a museum for its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards, and continued institutional improvement. It also signifies that a museum fulfills its obligations to the public as set forth in its mission.
Developed and sustained by museum professionals for 35 years, AAM\’s museum accreditation program is the field’s primary vehicle for quality assurance, self-regulation, and public accountability. It strengthens individual museums and the entire field by promoting ethical and professional practices.
The Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) and its member institutions – science centers and science museums around the world – are committed to advancing public understanding of science and contributing to the development of a scientifically literate society.
The International Space Hall of Fame Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to support the New Mexico Museum of Space History. It provides major funding for the museum’s education and exhibition programs. For more information about the ISHFF and how you can help, visit https://www.spacehalloffame.org/
The Governor’s Commission is comprised of a group of leaders in the professional, scientific, and educational communities whose mission is to provide oversight and direction to the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Each member is appointed by the Governor of New Mexico and serves a two year term. In keeping with their desire to fulfill their duties as representatives of the public trust, the Commissioners encourage the public to provide comment for discussion. Below, please find a list of the commissioners and an email address to which the public may send suggestions. Please note your name and general area of residence, along with your comments. Suggestions and comments are greatly appreciated.
The Governor’s Commission to the New Mexico Museum of Space History typically meets once each quarter on the last Friday of the month, at 1:00 pm. Meetings and agendas will posted to this website.
Dr. Donald Elder III
Kimberley Fahey
Jacqueline S. Fryar
Jon Haas
Carlos Martinez
Contact the Commission at msh.commissioners@state.nm.us
Dr. James McAteer
Dr. Paolo Oemig
Norma Chairez-Hartell
Dr. Bryce Tappan
James Tomaka
