This Is One of the Most Unique Road Trips in the U.S.-With 52 Sites Dedicated to Space, Stargazing, and UFOs

"See the night sky through a telescope. There are about a dozen observatories scattered throughout New Mexico, so witnessing the stars, planets, and galaxies through a high-powered telescope is a must. The state's low levels of light pollution and vast open spaces make it perfect for stargazing. Attend a free open house viewing session at The University of New Mexico Campus Observatory in Albuquerque or The Tombaugh Campus Observatory at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, to use a wide variety of telescopes."

"With high altitude, dark skies, and vast expanses populated by few people, it's no wonder that New Mexico has a longstanding history as a hotspot for stargazing, rocket launches, and possible UFO sightings. "New Mexico's connection to space is woven into our landscape, our history, and our spirit of exploration," says Lancing Adams, acting cabinet secretary of the New Mexico Tourism Department. One of the best ways to explore the Land of Enchantment's out-of-this-world history is by embarking on the New Mexico Space Trail."

New Mexico's high altitude, dark skies, and wide open spaces create ideal conditions for stargazing and space-related activities. The New Mexico Space Trail connects 52 historic space-related sites, ranging from ancient rock art to contemporary laboratories, offering varied perspectives on the state's role in space exploration. Development of the trail began in the 1990s and has involved multiple organizations, including the New Mexico Museum of Space History and SpaceValley Foundation. The state hosts about a dozen observatories, university open-house viewing sessions, planetarium programs, and facilities such as the Magdalena Ridge Observatory for public and educational engagement.

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