Visit

Welcome to the home of the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope

Upon arrival at the Observatory, please help us protect our observations by disabling all wireless signals on your mobile phones* and powering off other wireless devices. See below for more information.


Current Hours. Please see Science Center Hours and Admissions for seasonal hours and holiday closures.

Science Center Hours

Monday9:30 AM — 5:30 PM
Tuesday – WednesdayClosed
Thursday – Sunday9:30 AM — 5:30 PM

Starlight Café Hours

Monday10:30 AM — 5:30 PM
Tuesday – WednesdayClosed
Thursday – Sunday10:30 AM — 5:30 PM

Last hot food orders must be in by 5 PM!


Tours are offered on open days at 10:00, 12:00, 2:00, and 4:00 as availability allows. Tickets may be purchased in advance through our online shop or purchased in the gift shop on the day of your visit.


Questions? Call 304-456-2150 or email gro.y1710822676rotav1710822676resbo1710822676bg@ti1710822676siv1710822676

Accessibility

The Science Center building meets ADA standards for accessibility, and we have one tour bus that is equipped with a wheelchair lift. Some of our Behind-the-Scenes tours do visit historical spaces that are not wheelchair accessible. Accommodations can be made in some cases, so please don’t hesitate to enquire!

Explore On Your Own

The Observatory grounds are free and open to the public every day from sunrise to sunset! You are welcome to explore our trails or take a self-guided tour of our site; please just leave all electronic devices in your car.

Maps are available outside of the Science Center entrance. You can also download a map and print it before you come.

Learn more about biking onsite to explore our instruments and trails.


Welcome to the Quiet Zone!

The Green Bank Observatory is protected by the National Radio Quiet Zone, a 13,000 square mile area designated in 1958 by the Federal Communications Commission to minimize the impact of radio interference on scientific research and other federal projects. The Observatory is also protected by the West Virginia Radio Astronomy Zoning Act.

Upon arrival at the Observatory, please help us protect our observations by disabling all wireless signals on your mobile phones* and other smart devices. Going on a tour or a hike? Please power off your electronics completely or leave them in your vehicle when heading behind the gates.

*To disable wireless signals, open your Settings app and turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular data. () Wireless signals on mobile phones must be disabled in your settings BEFORE powering off your device; otherwise they may continue transmitting even when off.

Photography

Share your photos with us! Tag @GreenBankObservatory #GreenBankTelescope #GBT #NRQZ

Are you a journalist, filmmaker, or professional photographer looking for an interview, tour, or photo shoot? Visit our Media page to learn more.