White Sands Missile Range

White Sands Missile Range traces its modern test mission to the White Sands Proving Ground established on 9 July 1945. The U.S. Army’s 3,200-square-mile open-air range conducts missile, rocket and directed-energy testing for military, NASA, commercial and international users. It is an active controlled installation, not a general walk-in attraction: gates and public roads can close during testing, and travelers should check the Army’s roadblock line before departure. The separate White Sands Missile Range Museum, inside the Las Cruces/Alamogordo Main Post Gate, is free and open Tuesday–Saturday 10:00–16:00, except federal holidays. Trinity Site is a separate once-yearly public open house, scheduled for 17 October 2026, with designated Stallion Gate access, ID rules and an unpaved walk. Confirm current gate, museum and range notices before travel.