The Sunspot Visitor Center and Museum first opened its doors in July 1997. It is the result of a collaboration between NSO/Sacramento Peak (our observatory), Apache Point Observatory (our next-door neighbors), and the USDA Forest Service. We're still working on some of the exhibits that are planned to go into the Center, and when all is finished the Center will contain:

a sundial The Armillary Sphere and Sundial at the Sunspot Astronomy and Visitor Center

• exhibits about how astronomers learn things about the Universe.

• exhibits about the telescopes and facilities at our observatory.

• exhibits about the telescopes and facilities at Apache Point Observatory.

• exhibits about the forest and the work of the US Forest Service.

• a gift shop where you can buy books, posters, postcards, t-shirts, and sundry articles related to astronomy or the observatory.

The Visitor Center is wheelchair-accessible, and is the start and end point of guided and self-guided tours of our observatory. During the summer months, it is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm. During the winter months, the opening hours are 10 am to 4 pm, Friday, Saturday & Sunday(weather permitting).

*The walking tour and restrooms are available for visitors at all times throughout the year(weather permitting).

Alumnus :
Past employees of The National Solar Observatory register here.

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Last modified 3 April, 2001