Debra Garcia y Griego, Cabinet Secretary for Department of Cultural Affairs | americansforthearts.org
The International Space Hall of Fame Foundation (ISHFF) has announced it is accepting nominations for the next class of inductees into the International Space Hall of Fame, located at the New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo. The foundation is working with the Governor’s Commission to the Museum of Space History and collaborating closely with museum staff to find individuals who have made significant contributions to space exploration or astronomical knowledge.
The induction ceremony will be a central event during the museum’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, scheduled for October 2026. Since its opening in 1976 as the International Space Hall of Fame, the institution has focused on honoring those who have advanced space science and technology. Over time, it was renamed twice: first as the “Space Center” in 1987 and later as the “New Mexico Museum of Space History” in 2001.
Nominees are considered based on several criteria:
- Achievement: Either a single accomplishment or a career that clearly advanced space exploration or astronomical knowledge. Groups such as mission crews or research teams may also be recognized.
- Visionary: Individuals whose ideas anticipated future developments and had a significant effect on space exploration or astronomy.
- Pioneer: Those who pursued new approaches beyond traditional boundaries, showing persistence similar to Robert Goddard.
- Facilitator: Individuals whose efforts enabled others’ achievements and supported broader goals in space science.
Nominations can be submitted online at spacehalloffame.org until January 15, 2026. Existing inductees can be reviewed at nmspacemuseum.org. Additional information is available by contacting cathy.harper@spacehalloffame.org.
According to ISHFF, it is a nonprofit organization that supports scientific, educational, and charitable initiatives for the New Mexico Museum of Space History and its programs. The museum operates under the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs and receives support from donors through ISHFF.
The New Mexico Museum of Space History is part of a state agency responsible for cultural institutions throughout New Mexico.
"The International Space Hall of Fame Foundation (ISHFF) is now accepting nominations for induction into the International Space Hall of Fame at the New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo. Working under the direction of the Governor’s Commission to the Museum of Space History and in close collaboration with the museum, the ISHFF is leading the effort to identify remarkable individuals whose contributions have advanced humanity’s knowledge and exploration of space."
