By Sara Atencio-Gonzales, The Paper. – From prehistoric fossils to the mysteries of outer space, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science has spent four decades bringing the state’s scientific history to life. Now, as the museum celebrates its 40th anniversary, staff members are reflecting on its evolution while preparing several special events to commemorate the milestone.
Established in 1986, the Albuquerque museum has grown into one of New Mexico’s prominent scientific and educational institutions, offering visitors opportunities to explore the state’s natural history through exhibits, research and interactive experiences.
For Executive Director Anthony R. Fiorillo, the anniversary represents both an opportunity to reflect on the museum’s accomplishments and look toward its future. “We’ve had a remarkable 40 years from our opening to now, and so we’re obviously looking forward to the next 40,” says Fiorillo.
The museum’s origins date back to 1980, when then Gov. Bruce King signed legislation establishing a statewide institution dedicated to preserving New Mexico’s fossils and scientific collections.
Before its opening, the state lacked a centralized repository for these materials, many of which help researchers better understand New Mexico’s prehistoric past. Today, the museum houses more than 110,000 specimens, with research spanning paleontology, geoscience, bioscience and space science. It also serves as the Southwest’s largest repository for fossils.
Throughout its history, the museum has continued expanding its exhibits and collections, allowing visitors to experience millions of years of natural history.
“When we first opened, we had only so many fossils to represent that geologic time,” says Fiorillo. “I would say over the 40 years, our exhibits have put more and more real material out on display to tell real stories, and so that’s one thing I would say that 40 years is accomplished.”
Fiorillo, who has led the museum for just over four years, has also overseen significant improvements to its exhibits. He estimates approximately one-third of the museum’s exhibits have been refreshed or reimagined during his tenure, alongside continued scientific research and efforts to reach new audiences.
To commemorate the anniversary, the museum is hosting two special events in November, offering opportunities to learn about its scientific contributions and participate in family-friendly activities.
The festivities begin Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 6 p.m. with a panel discussion featuring the museum’s paleontology and bioscience curators. The discussion will highlight scientific discoveries and research from the past four decades, while allowing curators to share personal stories from their careers.
Fiorillo explains that the discussion will offer a different perspective on the work happening behind the scenes. “It’s going to be very personal from the people who helped establish us as a research museum,” says Fiorillo.
Tickets for the panel discussion cost $7 for museum members and $10 for the general public.
The main celebration follows Saturday, Nov. 7, with a full day of activities designed for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy free shows throughout the day in the museum’s Verus Research Dynatheater and Planetarium, Powered by Meta. Additional activities include a special scavenger hunt, origami dinosaur crafts in the Dino Den, dig stations, foam fossils, coloring activities and sensory bins.
Beyond the anniversary, Fiorillo emphasizes that the museum is continuing to plan exhibit renovations and new programming to keep the experience fresh for returning visitors. Another exhibit hall renovation is in development, while changing exhibitions will continue bringing new experiences to the museum.
For Fiorillo, the museum’s future is about more than expanding its collections. It is also about connecting with the community and encouraging visitors to see the natural world differently. “I would say the fact that we’re celebrating our 40th anniversary says that we’re here to stay, and that we are evolving, and we hope to continue to evolve,” says Fiorillo.
As the museum prepares to welcome visitors for its anniversary festivities, Fiorillo hopes they leave with something beyond a greater appreciation for science.
“That they had fun and they view the world a little differently than when they got here,” says Fiorillo.
For additional information about the anniversary celebrations, admission and upcoming events, visit New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science’s official website.