Visiting the Very Large Array

Do’s and Don’ts

Pet Policy

Pets are welcome in all outdoor public areas as long as they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. We ask that you abide by the B.A.R.K. principles: (B)ag your pet’s waste, (A)lways leash your pet, (R)espect wildlife, and (K)now where you can go. No pets are allowed in the Visitor Center and Gift Shop. If you have a service dog, please notify the staff and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Electronic Device Policy

When visiting the VLA, please have all electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, or anything else with an “On/Off” switch) in airplane mode and powered off. If you plan to use your electronic device to take photographs, you may briefly turn them on (while in airplane mode) to take your pictures, and then power your device off again once you’ve done so.

Please turn all WiFi and Bluetooth devices off as well.

Photography and Filming

As noted above, visitors to the VLA may photograph what they see from the designated self-guided walking tour during our regular daytime open hours.

The use of drones is strictly prohibited.

Night/astrophotography is not available onsite at the VLA after regular business hours.

If you are a journalist, member of the press, or content creator who’d like to interview NRAO staff, or film/photograph the VLA, VLBA, ngVLA, or NRAO offices or labs in New Mexico, start your application with NRAO News & Public Information.

All film and photography requests must be coordinated with NRAO News & Public Information.
Applications must be received a minimum of two weeks before the requested date.
Requests that focus on science and education are prioritized.
Fees may be charged for projects that require an interruption to regular observatory operations, access non-public areas of the site, or take place outside of regular public hours of operation.
Any requests sent to other emails, phone numbers, or staff will not be considered.

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the 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 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.