New Mexico Museum of Space History Delays Reopening
March 9th, 2021
ALAMOGORDO – The New Mexico Museum of Space History will remain closed at least until early to mid-May due to unexpected complications during renovations to the museum’s restrooms.
In the museum’s first floor restrooms, contractors discovered signs of erosion to the concrete, and the cast iron piping both underground and throughout the walls had multiple leaks and blockages. Work will continue on this project and is expected to be completed by mid to late June.
Renovations to the restrooms on the museum’s second and fourth floors, however, are expected to be finished by early May. Hand sanitizing stations have also been installed throughout the building.
“When this project was approved in October, our goal was to have it finished before the public was allowed to safely return,” said Museum Executive Director Chris Orwoll. “Unfortunately, as the contractors began removal of the existing restrooms, more and more problems began to emerge. As we all know, handwashing is critical to stopping the spread of COVID-19 and the safety of our visitors and staff is our highest priority.”
While the museum remains closed, other improvement projects will continue across the campus. Fluorescent lights in all museum buildings are being replaced with energy saving LEDs. Xeriscaping, which started on the grounds at the bottom of Highway 2001, has expanded around the buildings and the John P. Stapp Air & Space Park.
When the museum reopens, visitors can experience new exhibits, including a new Spaceflight Gallery and Satellite Gallery.
About the New Mexico Museum of Space History
The New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo is a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. A Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum showcases the significant role New Mexico has played in the development of the U.S. Space Program and features the International Space Hall of Fame, and New Horizons Dome Theater.
###
# # #
New Mexico CulturePass
Your ticket to New Mexico's exceptional Museums and Historic Sites.
From Indian treasures to space exploration, world-class folk art to awesome dinosaurs—our museums and monuments celebrate the essence of New Mexico every day.
More Info »
Encounter Culture
Take a look inside the museums and historic sites of New Mexico without leaving home. Join host Charlotte Jusinski, and a variety of guest curators, artists, and exhibitors in exploring the art and culture of the state in Encounter Culture, a new podcast from the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs.
Featured DCA Exhibitions
Shadow and Light
Shadow and Light, the inaugural exhibition at the Vladem Contemporary plays upon the famed New Mexico light which is
more »
The Santos of New Mexico
As part of our Highlights from the Collection: The Larry and Alyce Frank Collection of Santos (saints), in the Palace
more »
Working on the Railroad
Working on the Railroad pays tribute to the people who moved the rail industry throughout New Mexico.
Using nearly
more »
Segesser Hide Paintings
Though the source of the Segesser Hide Paintings is obscure, their significance cannot be clearer: the hides are rare
more »