Sandia Labs to Conduct Explosives Test at Kirtland Air Force Base

Residents may hear an explosion or see black smoke and dust during the controlled experiment.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Sandia National Laboratories is planning a controlled explosives test at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico on Thursday, February 26 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The experiment is part of the lab's national security missions, and all hazards are said to be controlled.

Why it matters

Sandia National Laboratories is one of the premier research and development facilities in the United States, focusing on national security, energy, and environmental technologies. The lab's explosives testing at Kirtland Air Force Base is an important part of its work, though it can understandably cause concern among local residents.

The details

The controlled explosives test will take place at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque. Sandia Labs says the experiment supports their national security missions, and all hazards associated with the test are controlled. The test dates and times are subject to change depending on the weather.

  • The explosives test is scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The players

Sandia National Laboratories

A premier research and development facility in the United States, focusing on national security, energy, and environmental technologies.

Kirtland Air Force Base

A United States Air Force base located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, which is home to Sandia National Laboratories' explosives testing facilities.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The test dates and times are subject to change depending on the weather.

The takeaway

Sandia National Laboratories' controlled explosives testing at Kirtland Air Force Base is an important part of their national security research, though it can understandably cause concern among local residents. The lab takes precautions to ensure the safety of these experiments.