posted 12-10-2025 11:04 AM               

Call for Nominations into the International Space Hall of Fame

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.

The induction ceremony will be the centerpiece of the museum's 50th Anniversary Celebration, set for October 2026. The museum first opened its doors in 1976 as the International Space Hall of Fame, dedicated to recognizing the pioneers of space exploration. It became the "Space Center" in 1987 and was renamed the "New Mexico Museum of Space History" in 2001, continuing its mission to honor innovation and inspire discovery.

Nominations are considered that meet the following criteria:

1. For Achievement
   1. A single accomplishment achieved before the nomination that clearly advanced either space exploration or astronomical knowledge, OR

   2. A career or lifetime pattern of achievement that significantly and obviously advanced either space exploration or astronomical knowledge; OR

   3. A specific idea or achievement that had a significant impact on either space exploration or astronomical knowledge.

   4. Groups may be selected for recognition, such as mission crews, research, or engineering teams.
   
   
2. As a Visionary

   An individual who anticipated the course of future events and clearly elucidated a probable course of activities to meet the needs of those times, and whose ideas or attitudes had a significant effect on either space exploration or astronomical knowledge.

3. As a Pioneer

   An individual who was not constrained by tradition but pursued an imaginative course or rationale that may or may not have proved accurate with the test of time, and whose efforts had a significant effect on either space exploration or astronomical knowledge. The Pioneer should have shown, like Robert Goddard, persistence and an unwillingness to accept defeat or failure.

4. As a Facilitator

   An individual whose tireless efforts, although lacking Notable Achievement, Visionary or Pioneering attributes, have empowered the achievement of others, and the fulfillment of the goals of the mission in which they have been involved, and has had a significant effect on either space exploration or astronomical knowledge.

To nominate an individual or team, please visit spacehalloffame.org. The deadline for nominees to be considered for Induction 2026 is January 15, 2026. To review existing Inductees of the International Space Hall of Fame, visit here.

For more information, email [email protected].

The International Space Hall of Fame Foundation (ISHFF) is a 501(c)3, non-profit corporation whose purpose is to receive and administer funds for scientific, educational, and charitable purposes including providing philanthropic support to the New Mexico Museum of Space History and its programs.

The New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo is a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, under the leadership of the Governor's Commission to the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Programs and exhibits are supported by the International Space Hall of Fame Foundation, with generous support from donors.