New Mexico, located in the southwestern United States, is divided into 33 counties and features several cities, with Albuquerque being the largest and most populous, followed by the state capital, Santa Fe, as well as Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Roswell. The state has a population of approximately 2.1 million people and covers a vast land area of 121,590 square miles, making it the fifth-largest state by area in the country. New Mexico’s geography is incredibly diverse, ranging from high desert landscapes to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Rio Grande Valley. Major airports in New Mexico include Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), the primary hub for domestic flights, and smaller regional airports like Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) and Roswell International Air Center (ROW). The state is home to several prominent higher education institutions, including the University of New Mexico (UNM) in Albuquerque, New Mexico State University (NMSU) in Las Cruces, and the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech) in Socorro, which specialize in a variety of academic fields and research initiatives. New Mexico’s healthcare system is supported by key hospitals such as UNM Hospital in Albuquerque, Presbyterian Hospital, and Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center in Santa Fe. The state’s economy is diverse, driven by industries such as oil and gas production, government and military operations, aerospace, tourism, and agriculture. New Mexico is a major producer of crude oil and natural gas, especially in the southeastern region known as the Permian Basin, while Los Alamos National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories play significant roles in scientific research and national security. Tourism is also a crucial sector, with visitors attracted to cultural sites like Carlsbad Caverns National Park, White Sands National Park, and the historic city of Santa Fe, known for its vibrant arts scene and Pueblo-style architecture. Agriculture is another key contributor, with the state producing crops such as chili peppers, pecans, and cattle. New Mexico’s mix of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures, along with its stunning landscapes, make it a unique and culturally rich state, offering a blend of urban and rural living intertwined with its deep historical roots.