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Very Large Array – Astrophotography Workshop

Name: Very Large Array – Astrophotography Workshop
Start: 2026-04-18T17:00:00-06:00
End: 2026-04-18T22:00:00-06:00
Location: The Very Large Array

April 18 @ 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm MDT

$100

Astrophotography Workshop at the Very Large Array
Saturday, April 18 · 5:00–10:00 PM
Very Large Array, Socorro, New Mexico
$100 per person

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Have you always wanted to photograph the night sky but didn’t know where to start? Join us for an evening at one of the most breathtaking locations in the world, the Very Large Array, for a hands-on astrophotography workshop designed with beginners in mind.

The workshop begins in the classroom and moves outside as the sun sets over the New Mexico desert, and the stars begin to emerge. You’ll learn everything you need to capture stunning images of the night sky. No experience necessary, just bring your camera and your curiosity.

What you’ll learn:

Camera settings for night photography (aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc.)
How to compose compelling shots using the VLA’s iconic dishes as your foreground
Milky Way basics: how to find it, track it, and photograph it
Light painting techniques to add drama and color to your long exposures

Exclusive ngVLA Access — included with every ticket Your $100 ticket also includes rare physical access to shoot near the ngVLA (next-generation Very Large Array) antenna, the future of radio astronomy, and a one-of-a-kind backdrop that very few photographers have ever had the chance to capture. This access is not available to the general public.

Space is limited — this is a small-group experience to ensure everyone gets personal attention and the best possible shooting spots.

$100 per person

What to bring: a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual mode, a wide-angle lens, a tripod, extra batteries, and warm layers — desert nights get cold fast.

Details

Date: April 18
Time:
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm MDT
Cost: $100
Event Category: New Mexico
Website: https://nraoepo.ticketapp.org/portal/product/39

Organizer

STEAM Ed
Email VisitVLA@nrao.edu

Venue

The Very Large Array
The Very Large Array NM 87825 United States + Google Map
View Venue Website

Very Large Array &#8211; Astrophotography Workshop

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.
	Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.
	The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."
	AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.