Information
Landmark: Coast Guard Station Block IslandCity: New Shoreham
Country: USA Rhode Island
Continent: North America
Coast Guard Station Block Island, New Shoreham, USA Rhode Island, North America
The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is a museum located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA.
Visual Characteristics
The museum is housed in a single-story, rectangular building constructed primarily of concrete and brick. Its exterior is painted a neutral beige color. The main entrance features a prominent, cantilevered canopy. The building's design is functional and utilitarian, reflecting its subject matter.
Location & Access Logistics
The museum is situated at 1030 San Mateo Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. It is approximately 6.4 kilometers (4 miles) southeast of the downtown Albuquerque core. Ample free parking is available in a dedicated lot adjacent to the building. Public transport options include the ABQ Ride bus system; Route 22 stops within a short walking distance of the museum entrance.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The museum was founded in 1969 as the Albuquerque Museum of Atomic Energy. Its original purpose was to educate the public about the history and science of nuclear energy and its applications. The building itself was constructed in the mid-20th century, designed for its current institutional use.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can explore exhibits on the Manhattan Project, nuclear medicine, nuclear power, and the history of nuclear weapons. Interactive displays demonstrate principles of nuclear physics. The museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, including early nuclear devices and scientific equipment. Guided tours are available on select days; check the museum's schedule for details.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shaded areas are present in the outdoor exhibit space. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the museum. There are no on-site food vendors, but several fast-food restaurants are located within a 1.6-kilometer (1-mile) radius.
Best Time to Visit
The museum is open year-round. Weekday mornings typically have lower visitor numbers. The indoor exhibits are accessible regardless of weather conditions. No specific tide or time-of-day considerations are relevant for visiting this indoor facility.
Facts & Legends
A notable artifact on display is a B-53 thermonuclear bomb, one of the largest bombs ever developed by the United States. The museum also features a replica of the "Fat Man" bomb used on Nagasaki.
Nearby Landmarks
- 0.8km West: National Hispanic Cultural Center
- 1.6km Northwest: University of New Mexico
- 3.2km Southwest: Old Town Albuquerque
- 4.8km North: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center