Spaceport America
Explore the cutting edge of space travel at Spaceport America, a premier launch site for commercial spaceflight and rocketry competitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience student rocket launches
Spaceport America
Best Time
Experience student rocket launches
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the cutting edge of space travel at Spaceport America, a premier launch site for commercial spaceflight and rocketry competitions.
"An incredible visit to a unique infrastructure positioning our region at the forefront of aerospace. 
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Public tours are limited and sell out fast. Book your spot well ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
☀️ Desert Weather Preparedness
New Mexico's desert climate is extreme. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially for outdoor viewing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Virgin Galactic Flights
Launch Pad
Witness the dawn of commercial space tourism as Virgin Galactic launches from this iconic desert spaceport.
Spaceport America Cup
Launch Site
Experience the energy of student rocketry teams from around the globe competing in this premier event.
Visitor Center & Museum
Main Facility
Discover the history, technology, and future of space exploration at this informative hub.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Launch Pad
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Public tours are limited and sell out fast. Book your spot well ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
☀️ Desert Weather Preparedness
New Mexico's desert climate is extreme. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially for outdoor viewing.
🚀 Check Launch Schedules
Launches are weather-dependent and can be rescheduled. Stay updated via the official Spaceport America website.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera! The vast desert landscape and futuristic architecture make for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Public tours are limited and sell out fast. Book your spot well ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
☀️ Desert Weather Preparedness
New Mexico's desert climate is extreme. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially for outdoor viewing.
🚀 Check Launch Schedules
Launches are weather-dependent and can be rescheduled. Stay updated via the official Spaceport America website.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera! The vast desert landscape and futuristic architecture make for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often describe Spaceport America as a unique and awe-inspiring glimpse into the future of space travel. While its remote location and limited public access can be challenging, the experience of seeing advanced aerospace facilities and potential launches is highly rewarding. The Spaceport America Cup is a particular highlight for its vibrant atmosphere and student innovation.
"Nothing much going on here, I wanna go to the moon!"
Timothy Hess
"Nice working place"
Nasim Hasan
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Naveed Jafari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Spaceport America is located in southern New Mexico, about an hour's drive east of Las Cruces. The closest major airport is El Paso International Airport (ELP). From Las Cruces, take NM-549 E and then NM-136 E. It's a remote location, so a car is essential.
Public transportation options are very limited due to its remote location. Renting a car is the most practical way to reach Spaceport America.
Spaceport America is approximately 60 miles (about a 1-hour drive) east of Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Generally, access to Spaceport America is restricted to scheduled tours or during specific events like the Spaceport America Cup. Spontaneous visits are not typically accommodated.
Spaceport America is situated in the Jornada del Muerto desert basin in Sierra County, New Mexico, USA.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for public tours must be booked in advance through the official Spaceport America website. Availability can be limited, especially during peak seasons or event times.
Operating hours vary depending on scheduled tours and events. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on tour availability and event schedules.
Spaceport America offers various tour options, often including guided visits to the visitor center, launch pads, and hangar facilities. Check their website for current offerings and pricing.
Attending a launch, especially a Virgin Galactic flight, is a rare opportunity and typically involves exclusive packages or invitations. The Spaceport America Cup is more accessible for spectators.
Yes, there is an admission fee for guided tours. The cost varies depending on the type of tour booked.
🎫 🚀 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the state-of-the-art facilities, learn about the history of spaceflight, and witness potential launches. The visitor center offers exhibits and insights into the future of space tourism.
Yes, Spaceport America can be an inspiring destination for families interested in science and space exploration. Educational exhibits and the thrill of potential launches can engage younger visitors.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as tours involve some walking. Dress in layers, as desert temperatures can fluctuate significantly. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses) is essential.
Photography is generally allowed in designated visitor areas, but specific restrictions may apply during launches or sensitive operations. Always follow the guidance of your tour guide.
The Spaceport America Cup is an international university rocketry competition held annually at Spaceport America, attracting hundreds of student teams.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options within Spaceport America itself are very limited. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and water, or plan to eat before or after your visit in nearby towns like Las Cruces.
Yes, visitors are generally permitted to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Staying hydrated is crucial in the desert environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The futuristic architecture of the terminal building, the vast desert landscape, and any active launch pads offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Photography is usually permitted during launches from designated viewing areas, but always adhere to any specific instructions from event organizers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Attending during the Spaceport America Cup can be particularly thrilling, with the chance to see numerous student rockets launch. It's a fantastic opportunity to spark curiosity about STEM fields and inspire the next generation of astronauts and engineers. Remember to pack plenty of water and sun protection for everyone.
🚀 Aspiring Astronauts & Space Enthusiasts
Take advantage of guided tours to gain in-depth knowledge about the engineering marvels and the history of space exploration. The sheer scale of the operations and the vision for the future of space travel are truly awe-inspiring.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1If you're lucky enough to be there during a launch or the Spaceport America Cup, you'll have incredible opportunities for dynamic shots. Always be mindful of designated viewing areas and any photography restrictions to ensure safety and operational integrity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spaceport America Cup: A Student Rocketry Showcase
+4Beyond the competition itself, the event fosters a unique atmosphere of collaboration and learning. Teams share knowledge, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate each other's successes. It's a testament to the future of aerospace, driven by passionate young minds. The event often includes safety inspections and registration days, adding to the excitement.
+1For spectators, the Cup offers a thrilling spectacle of multiple rocket launches over several days. It's a chance to witness cutting-edge rocketry firsthand and experience the vibrant energy of the next generation of space engineers.
Virgin Galactic and the Future of Space Tourism
The flights offer passengers a brief but profound experience of weightlessness and a view of Earth from space. While access to witness these specific launches is often exclusive, the presence of Virgin Galactic underscores Spaceport America's role in advancing the commercial space industry.
This partnership highlights the growing trend of new Mexico space launch capabilities and positions the state as a key player in the burgeoning us spaceports sector. The development of such facilities is crucial for enabling more frequent and accessible space travel.
Navigating the Remote Desert Landscape
Essential items to pack include ample water, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for tours. Given the limited dining options on-site, bringing your own food and snacks is highly recommended.
While the remote setting contributes to the unique, almost otherworldly atmosphere of Spaceport America, it also necessitates self-sufficiency. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and that you have a reliable way to navigate, as cell service can be spotty in some areas.
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