COVID-19 Safety Operations

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In response to the health concerns posed by COVID-19, the Green Bank Observatory has made changes to its public programs and events.

Learn more about how to access the Science Center, bus tours, and other guided programs here.

Tour tickets are required to enter the Science Center. These can be purchased at our online store.

At this time, occupancy to the Science Center, cafe, and gift shop is limited to ensure safety. Purchase your ticket online before you visit to ensure your reservation.

Masks are required to be worn by those two years and older over nose and mouth while inside Science Center, buses, and participating in any of our activities. THIS IS STRICTLY ENFORCED FOR THE SAFETY OF OUR STAFF AND ALL VISITORS.

Virtual tours, live streams, and video updates on Observatory news and education are also available, tune in here.

As these operations continue to evolve, please check back for updates.

Take a FREE self-guided walking tour on site. Hiking and biking are welcome. An observation deck to view the Green Bank Telescope is located in the Jansky Lab parking lot. You can download and print a map for a self guided walking tour here.

Learn more about biking onsite here.

Visit the Galaxy Gift Shop online.

Try these educational resources and activities at home.

Our instruments are extremely sensitive, and many operate 24-hours a day. Smart phones, digital cameras, fitness trackers, and other electronic devices can interfere with observations. Our scientists thank you for leaving these powered off in your vehicle!

Educational groups scheduled for visits and programs in 2021 that are affected by this change in operations will be contacted directly. Virtual visits are being offered for groups, learn more here. If you have questions, please contact our Education staff directly at reservations@gbobservatory.org.

Earth Is Safe From Asteroid Apophis for 100-Plus Years

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Green Bank Telescope Teams Up With NASA’s JPL Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex to Track Asteroid

The near-Earth object was thought to pose a slight risk of impacting Earth in 2068, but now radar observations have ruled that out.

This image is taken from an animation showing the distance between the Apophis asteroid and Earth at the time of the asteroid’s closest approach. The blue dots are the many man-made satellites that orbit our planet, and the pink represents the International Space Station. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech
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Celebrating 20 Years of Innovation & Discovery

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As part of our celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope (GBT), the Green Bank Observatory (GBO) is conducting an image contest with cash prizes. Eligible entries include radio images, multiwavelength composite images, animations, data visualizations, 3-D models, and others. All entries must include radio data obtained with the GBT.

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