US What's happening in Sunspot, New Mexico?

Second Summer

Second Summer

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Probably some gun whacko making threats against them because they're afraid of the mercury or something, so they had to evacuate the whole area.
 
Another theory at the moment is that spies have been able to use the observatory grounds to monitor activities at neighbouring White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base, so the FBI had closed the observatory to prevent this. Not sure why they also closed the post office ...

Edit: I guess this theory better explains the secrecy - why the FBI won't say anything about why they closed down the observatory.
 
Last edited:
And the boring explanation is ...

AURA has been cooperating with an on-going law enforcement investigation of criminal activity that occurred at Sacramento Peak. During this time, we became concerned that a suspect in the investigation potentially posed a threat to the safety of local staff and residents. For this reason, AURA temporarily vacated the facility and ceased science activities at this location.

The decision to vacate was based on the logistical challenges associated with protecting personnel at such a remote location, and the need for expeditious response to the potential threat. AURA determined that moving the small number of on-site staff and residents off the mountain was the most prudent and effective action to ensure their safety.
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More: AURA News (17. Sept. 2018)
 
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