Very Large Array

Plains of San Agustin, New Mexico, November 27, 1986

The VLA is an astronomical radio observatory consisting of 27 25-meter dish antennas (one of which is seen here) arranged in a Y-shaped pattern. The array is adjustable; in the largest configuration, the dishes stretch out 13 miles from the center.

The VLA, which is operated by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, is located 50 miles west of Socorro, New Mexico on Highway 60. The VLA has a visitor center and a self-guided walking tour which are open daily to the public.