Where is White Sands Missile Range?
The White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) is a United States Army test and training range located in southern New Mexico, USA. It is one of the largest military bases in the world, covering over 3,200 square miles (8,300 km²) of land.
Location
WSMR is situated in the Tularosa Basin, near the town of Alamogordo, New Mexico. The base is located in Otero County, about 45 miles (72 km) northeast of Las Cruces, the state’s second-largest city.
History
The White Sands Missile Range was established in 1945, shortly after the end of World War II. The US Army had been looking for a remote location to conduct missile testing, and the New Mexico desert was chosen for its unique combination of open space, flat terrain, and limited population. The range was officially opened on September 9, 1945, and since then, it has played a crucial role in the development of the US military’s missile and space capabilities.
Capabilities
WSMR is a fully operational test and training range, capable of supporting a wide range of military operations, including:
- Missile testing: WSMR is one of the few ranges in the world that can test and fire a variety of missiles, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and hypersonic missiles.
- Aerial gunnery: The range has a large number of aerial gunnery targets, allowing pilots to practice their skills and test their aircraft’s accuracy.
- Ground target practice: WSMR has a variety of ground targets, including tanks, armored vehicles, and structures, that can be destroyed using various types of artillery and small arms.
- Space operations: The range is also used to test and launch satellites and other space-based systems.
- Special operations training: WSMR provides training facilities for special operations forces, including airborne, maritime, and land-based operations.
Facilities and Infrastructure
WSMR is equipped with a wide range of facilities and infrastructure to support its various activities. Some of the notable facilities include:
- Launch pads: The range has a number of launch pads, including the famous Launch Pad 26, which was used to launch the first American satellite, Explorer 1, in 1958.
- Missile test facilities: WSMR has a variety of test facilities, including silos, test beds, and firing ranges, that are used to test and evaluate missiles.
- Airfields: The range has two airfields, the White Sands Missile Range Airfield and the Holloman Air Force Base, which are used to support military operations.
- Training facilities: WSMR has a variety of training facilities, including ranges, targets, and simulators, that are used to train military personnel.
- Housing and amenities: The base has a range of housing options, including apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes, as well as amenities such as a grocery store, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
Points of Interest
WSMR is not open to the general public, but there are a few points of interest that can be accessed:
- White Sands National Monument: Located adjacent to the base, the monument is a beautiful white gypsum sand dune system that is popular with visitors.
- Las Cruces: The city of Las Cruces is just a short drive from WSMR and offers a range of attractions, including museums, historic sites, and outdoor recreational activities.
- Holloman Air Force Base: The air force base is located next to WSMR and offers a range of attractions, including a museum and a flight simulator.
Conclusion
The White Sands Missile Range is a significant military base that plays a crucial role in the development of the US military’s missile and space capabilities. Located in southern New Mexico, the range offers a unique combination of remote location, flat terrain, and limited population, making it an ideal location for military testing and training.
