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Sunspot Education Center and Science Museum (1Jun94)
(from NSO, NOAO Newsletter No. 38, 1 June 1994)

The National Solar Observatory, in partnership with the State of New
Mexico, Apache Point Observatory and the US Forest Service is
developing a world-class education center and museum to be located at
Sunspot, New Mexico.  Plans include an auditorium/theater, science
museum, visitor facilities, interpretive trails and a scenic vista
point overlooking the Tularosa Basin.

The budget for the project is approximately $1.2M with about 90% of the
funding in place.  Funds were derived from the State of New Mexico and
an Intermodal Surface Transportation Enhancement Act (ISTEA) grant from
the Federal Highway Administration.  Currently, biological assessments
are being completed on the site, rfp's are being evaluated for
selection of an architectural firm, and planning continues by the
partners.

It is expected that a ground-breaking will take place this fall in
conjunction with the 25th anniversary of the dedication of the Vacuum
Tower Telescope.  Construction should begin soon thereafter with an
expected completion date of June 1995.

Rex Hunter

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