Officially known as the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array, most people call it the Very Large Array, or just VLA for short. Located  on the Plains of Augustin, the VLA is 50 miles west of Socorro, near Magdalena, New Mexico.

Photographs of the Very Large Array

For the photographer, the Very Large Array is evocative of the concepts of science, space travel, and the hunt for extraterrestrial life. It is an icon of science fiction. The VLA has been a bit player in such movies as Contact, Independence Day, and Terminator Salvation. Here are a few photos I took while passing through central New Mexico:

What is the Very Large Array?

The VLA is a radio-astronomy observatory that is part of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, or NRAO. The VLA is made up of 27 dish antennas, which are arrange in a Y-configuration; otherwise known as an array. Each antenna captures radio frequencies emitted from celestial objects. However, it is the fact that these antennas work together as one that makes this observatory so powerful and productive.

Guided and self-guided tours are available. Here is a link to more information about these tours and other activities at the VLA.

Purchasing our photos

To license photographs or purchase prints, contact us using the form to the right and we will do our best to meet your needs. Here is a link to more information about our fine art prints.