Accessibility
The NCAR Mesa Lab Visitor Center is committed to opening its doors to everyone, including those with disabilities along with their families and friends. Our Visitor program is committed to ensuring an inclusive environment which promotes learning and enjoyment for visitors with diverse interests, abilities, and needs.
Wheelchair Users and Those with Mobility Impairments
NCAR's Mesa Lab Visitor Center offers two entrances for those with mobility impairments and their companions. Wheelchairs are available to visitors once inside the building at the front desk reception area.
Front driveway access: This is a secure driveway and entrance. Visitors must call NCAR Security (303.497.1139) in advance to gain access to the two accessible parking spaces or to drop visitors off at the main entrance.
Accessible rear entrance: The NCAR Mesa Lab Visitor Center has an accessible parking area at the back (south side) of the building directly next to our delivery dock. Please buzz the intercom located next to the inside door and our security staff will facilitate your entrance. Feel free to ask via the intercom for a staff escort to meet you at this entrance, if desired. All doors in this area are automatic. Once inside, follow the green dots to the elevator. Enter the elevator, press *G for Ground Level, and it will transport you to the first floor of our Visitor Center.
All exhibits and public areas are accessible by elevator, including a small lift that provides access to the NCAR Tree Plaza where visitors can eat lunch during warmer months. All theaters include wheelchair seating areas along with companion seats. The NCAR cafeteria is also accessible to all with no steps or turnstiles.
Telephones
TTY is available for incoming calls at the pay phone directly across from the NCAR Front Desk.
Open Captioning
Open captioning is available in the NCAR mini-theater where visitors are invited to watch and/or listen to a 10-minute movie called Air Planet People. This video highlights the history of UCAR and NCAR, as well as their combined mission, programs, services, and research. This video is available with both English and Spanish subtitles. Four other videos are offered in the theater: When Nature Strikes - Wildfires, High Altitude Observatory Solar Eclipse, Boulder Underwater, and DripDrop! Music Video: What's up with our climate and water.
Sign Language Interpreters
NCAR does not have full-time signing personnel. However, we will make every effort to meet your needs if we are given adequate lead time prior to your visit, ideally at least one week in advance. Please contact our scheduling staff to request an interpreter and specify American Sign Language (ASL) or Signed English.
Visitors Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision
Many of the exhibits at NCAR are touchable and tactile. In addition, Visitor Center staff have artifacts that can be handled to bring the atmospheric sciences to life for everyone. Please inquire at the Mesa Lab Visitor Center front desk if you are interested in this service, Monday through Friday during business hours.
Questions
Mesa Lab Visitor Center staff are available at NCAR Monday through Friday during business hours to assist you and to answer any of your questions. Please contact us by calling (303.497.2401) or by emailing the School and Public Programs Office.