Socorro, Administrative center in Socorro County, United States.
Socorro lies in the Rio Grande Valley at roughly 4600 feet elevation and is surrounded by desert landscape and extinct volcanoes. The town serves as the administrative center of the county bearing its name in New Mexico and hosts scientific facilities along with residential areas near the river.
Spanish colonists founded the settlement in the late 16th century after receiving support from Piro Indians at nearby Teypana pueblo. The outpost grew over centuries from a trading point into a center for education and science in the region.
The name comes from Spanish and means help, referring to aid early settlers received here. Today research institutions and scientific activity shape life in town, with students and scientists forming a visible part of the community.
Access to wildlife refuges and observatories in the area often requires a vehicle, as public transport options are limited. The elevation and dry desert climate make it wise to carry plenty of water and use sun protection.
Nearby stands the Very Large Array, an arrangement of 27 radio antennas spread across roughly 22 miles. The antennas move on rails and can change position to form different configurations for astronomical observations.
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