Updated: 9/14/2015 
National Museum of Nuclear Science and History [nid:2853]
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Description

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is an intriguing place to learn the story of the Atomic Age, from early conception, the Manhattan Project and the Cold War, to today's peaceful uses of nuclear technology.

It's a place to learn, to imagine, to think, and to draw your own conclusions. We welcome visitors of all ages and all walks of life because the history and science of nuclear energy affects each and every one of us. Children will love Little Albert's Lab, where inquisitive minds can explore hands-on science activities, and no one will want to miss the planes, missiles, and atomic cannon in our 9-acre outdoor Heritage Park!

At the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, it's our mission to chronicle the past, describe the present, and imagine the future of nuclear science. Learn what's happening at the cutting edge of energy, nanotechnology, and healthcare.

Mission

The Museum's mission is "to serve as America's resource for nuclear history and science. The Museum presents exhibits and quality educational programs that convey the diversity of individuals and events that shape the historical and technical context of the nuclear age."

History

The creation of the Museum in 1969 was the result of a six-year effort to establish a museum to tell the story of the base and the development of nuclear weapons.

The Museum was located on Kirtland Air Force Base. In 1973, the museum name was changed to National Atomic Museum to reflect the growing national and international audience and the fact that it was the only public museum that preserved the history of the nuclear industry. The Museum closed its doors at the Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico on September 11, 2001, due to heightened security measures at the Base.

The National Atomic Museum was in its rented Old Town location from May 11, 2002 to February 7, 2009; the Museum re-opened in its current location in southeast Albuquerque in April 2009, when it was renamed The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History.

Artifact Collections

The exhibits at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History provide an objective, accessible window into the past, present, and future of nuclear science. They cover everything from the very origins of atomic theory, the complexity of the political scenarios contributing to World War II, the height of the Cold War, to modern-day advances in nuclear medicine - and even begin to speculate about the future of this fascinating and exciting field. The Museum gives its visitors a memorable and vivid understanding of nuclear science and history.

Research Collections

Photographs, reports, manuals.

Programs

Permanent and temporary exhibitions, tours, docent program, family events, science camps for children, teacher workshops, homeschool program, educators guide.

Facilities

30,000 sq ft building with areas available for facility rentals. 9-acre outdoor exhibit area known as Heritage Park.

Library

Access: General Public

Appointment required: True

Services
Event Rental

Experience the joy and elegance of a dinner party, reception, corporate dinner or lecture at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. The Museum boasts the ambiance and resources of a formal venue, with the addition of the atmosphere of science, technology, engineering, history, math and physics. Your guests will dine among the pioneers of the scientific world. Whether you are planning a wedding or a retirement party, young and old alike will enjoy their time at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. We invite you to call us and schedule an appointment to tour our facility!

Group Tours - 2 options

The Museum hosts two kinds of tours: those in our Museum and those we take to sites around New Mexico.

We are happy to accommodate your group of seniors, preschoolers, Scouts, or other groups interested in learning at the Museum. Whether your group is traveling, taking a class, or just wanting to see our interesting exhibits and artifacts, call and make a reservation today. Groups of 10 or more people are eligible for a Group Tour Rate. You may guide yourself around the Museum, or request one of our knowledgeable docents. To receive the rate, you must schedule your tour with the Reservation Coordinator by calling 245-2137, ext. 122. The discount is offered to established groups; it is not a family rate.

For information about the Museum's annual Trinity Tour, contact Molly Brunell at (505) 245-2137, ext. 109.

Museum Store

Located just inside the Museum entrance, the Museum Store provides a distinctive mix of products that are a fun and educational extension of the Museum’s mission. You will find signature products celebrating the Museum, exhibit-inspired merchandise, jewelry, gifts and toys, DVDs, scholarly and popular publications for all ages and tastes. Remember, Museum members receive a 10% discount on all store merchandise!

Gift Shop
Event Rental
Group Tours
Hours of Operation
Daily9 AM - 5 PM

Closed on New Year?s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The Museum will close early at 3:00 pm on both Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.

Admission

Adults (18-59): $12
Seniors (over 60+): $10
Military Veterans: $8
Active Military (and dependents): $7
Youth (6-17): $10
Children under 5: Free

DISCLAIMER
This information, including business hours, addresses and contact information is provided for general reference purposes only. No representation is made or warranty is given as to its content or the reliability thereof. User assumes all risk of use. Stories USA, Inc. and its content suppliers assume no responsibility for any loss or delay resulting from such use. Please call ahead to verify the dates, the location and directions.

MUSEUM CONFERENCES

2025 Tennessee Association of Museums Conference: HOPE

March 11 - 14, 2025

Knoxville, Tennessee

Virginia Association of Museum's 2025 Annual Conference!

March 15 - 18, 2025

Blacksburg, Virginia

Ohio Museum Asociation 2025 Annual Conference - Athens

March 29 - 31, 2025

Athens, Ohio

North Carolina Museums Council 2025 Annual Conference

March 30 - 31, 2025

Raleigh, North Carolina

Arkansas Museums Association 2025 Conference

March 31 - April 3, 2025

Washington, Arkansas

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