Sandia Base

Sandia Base is a national laboratory facility in southeastern Albuquerque that focuses on research and development in science and technology. The installation shares its location with Kirtland Air Force Base and sits at approximately 5,400 feet elevation near the Sandia Mountains.

The facility was established in 1946 and grew into a center for military research during the Cold War. In 1971 it merged with Kirtland Air Force Base and has operated as an integrated installation since then.

The facility maintains a nuclear weapons training school and conducts research across multiple technical areas including weapons systems design and assembly procedures.

Visitor access requires approval from a facility employee and valid identification documents. Security screening happens on-site and can take several days, so plan ahead when arranging a visit.

The Z Machine at this location produces the strongest human-made X-rays on Earth using advanced electromagnetic pulse technology. This device is used for experiments that would otherwise only be possible under extreme natural conditions.