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
| Monday | 9:30 AM — 5:30 PM |
| Tuesday – Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday – Sunday | 9:30 AM — 5:30 PM |
Starlight Café Hours
| Monday | 11:00 AM — 5:30 PM |
| Tuesday – Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday – Sunday | 11:00 AM — 5:30 PM |
See menu for hours of availability.
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.
Education Programs
Field Trips and Overnight Research Experiences are available to organized student and youth groups! Programs are free with advance reservation for qualifying groups, but fees apply for meals and overnight lodging.
Questions? Call 304-456-2150 or email gro.y1732172256rotav1732172256resbo1732172256bg@ti1732172256siv1732172256
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. (
Photography
- Film cameras, including instant and disposable cameras, can be used to photograph throughout all public areas on site!
- Digital cameras, including smartphone cameras, can only be used to take photos around the Science Center and at the Observation Deck. Please power off all digital cameras before passing through the gate or taking trails into the restricted zone.
- Photos of any kind are prohibited in some behind-the-scenes spaces that require advance screening; please follow the guidance of your GBO host.
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.