The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, offers a captivating exploration into the Atomic Age. Established in 1969, this unique institution is dedicated to unraveling the narrative of nuclear development, starting from the earliest research phases to the peaceful applications of nuclear technology prevalent today. Visitors are invited to delve into the ongoing impact of nuclear science on our world through a rich collection of permanent and rotating exhibits. The museum endeavors to showcase the wide-ranging applications of nuclear science across history, the present day, and into the future, alongside illuminating stories of the pioneers in this pivotal field.
The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History proudly holds affiliations with the Smithsonian and accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, underscoring its commitment to excellence and educational standards.
A Brief Look at its Past
The inception of the Museum in 1969 was the culmination of a six-year endeavor aimed at creating a space that would recount the history of Kirtland Air Force Base and the evolution of nuclear weapons. Initially situated on Kirtland Air Force Base, the institution underwent a name change in 1973, becoming the National Atomic Museum. This renaming reflected its expanding national and international audience and its unique position as the sole public museum dedicated to preserving the history of the nuclear industry. Due to heightened security measures, the museum at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico had to close its doors on September 11, 2001. From May 11, 2002, to February 7, 2009, the National Atomic Museum operated from a rented location in Old Town. It triumphantly reopened in its current, more spacious location in southeast Albuquerque in April 2009, adopting its present name: The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History.
Mission and Purpose
The Museum’s core mission is to function as America’s definitive resource for nuclear history and science. It achieves this by presenting thoughtfully curated exhibits and delivering high-caliber educational programs. These initiatives are designed to effectively communicate the diverse array of individuals and landmark events that have collectively shaped the historical and technical framework of the nuclear age. The museum is committed to providing comprehensive insights into the multifaceted world of nuclear science and its continuing relevance.
Strategic Alliance with the Atomic Heritage Foundation
On June 24, 2019, a landmark agreement solidified a partnership between the Atomic Heritage Foundation and the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. This collaboration is dedicated to the preservation of the Manhattan Project and Atomic Age history. This significant pact ensures that the Atomic Heritage Foundation’s extensive repository of oral histories, accessible through Voices of the Manhattan Project, alongside interpretive narratives available via Ranger in Your Pocket, and a wealth of articles concerning the Manhattan Project and its enduring legacy, will remain publicly accessible for generations to come.
