Space, Lasers, and Legacy: The AFRL Phillips Research Site Story showcases the people, technologies, and discoveries that helped shape America's space and defense capabilities.
ALBUQUERQUE, NM — The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History will open Space, Lasers, and Legacy: The AFRL Phillips Research Site Story a new exhibition exploring the remarkable history of the Air Force Research Laboratory's Phillips Research Site and its contributions to science, space exploration, and national defense. The exhibit opens on November 7, 2026. The exhibit is included with Museum admission.
Spanning the atomic age to the present day, the exhibition traces the site's evolution into a world leader in space technology and directed energy research. Through rare artifacts, interactive media, and historical archives, visitors will discover how generations of scientists, engineers, and military personnel transformed innovative ideas into technologies that continue to shape our world.
"The story of the AFRL Phillips Research Site is ultimately a story of innovation and perseverance," said Dr. Darren Raspa, Space & Directed Energy Historian and Tech Integration Lead, Air Force Research Laboratory. "This exhibition highlights not only the extraordinary technologies developed here, but also the people whose dedication and vision helped shape the nation's scientific and technological leadership."
"This exhibit highlights an extraordinary chapter in New Mexico's scientific legacy," said Jennifer Hayden, President and CEO of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. "It showcases how decades of research and innovation have advanced both national security and space exploration."
Exhibition highlights include the "Plastinaut" Anthropomorphic Radiation Dummy, General Phillips' NASA Director Jacket, ATLAS-I Trestle hardware, the Varda W-2 Re-Entry Vehicle, and a large-scale NTS-3 satellite model. Many artifacts, including space-flown hardware, scientific instruments, and declassified military technologies, are on public display for the first time.
Visitors can also explore an interactive timeline, historic recordings, original music, and video footage documenting major milestones in aerospace and defense research.
Space, Lasers, and Legacy: The AFRL Phillips Research Site Story offers a unique look at the people, discoveries, and innovations that have helped establish America's leadership in space and technology for nearly eight decades.
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About the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History:
The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, presents, interprets, and preserves the complex history and science of the atomic age in an objective and thought-provoking manner. The Museum is open 361 days a year from 8 am to 5 pm. Visit nuclearmuseum.org for more information.