Greenbank Radio Telescope

On a recent trip to the area, I took a tour of the Greenbank Telescope, formally called the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope. The location was a part of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, though it is now independently operated. The telescope is the largest, fully steerable radio telescope in the world, and it is an impressive site to see. It operates at meter to millimeter wavelengths with a huge 100-meter diameter collecting area – which is huge compared to others. I learned a great deal about the telescope and how it works, including that the large surface area creates a very high level of sensitivity across the operating range.

One of the most interesting things about the Green Bank telescope is that it sits in the U.S. National Radio Quiet Zone. This area is really unique because there are limited radio transmissions in the area as a way to reduce emissions toward the telescope. Because it is in this quiet zone, it allows the telescope to pick up very faint radio frequency signals. I learned that it is capable of picking up signals that most other types of equipment cannot pick up as well as signals that are often masked or hidden.

When visiting the location, you’ll notice several other telescopes on the property, though none of them are this big or impressive. It’s also likely to have a good number of people because, even though it takes a bit of effort to get there, it’s a really great site for exploration.

As you walk around the area, you’ll see detailed information and signage that helps to showcase how the telescope works, what it can do and its incredible precision. For example, you’ll learn that just a single foot of space on the telescope is capable of measuring more than three billion feet in the solar system, which gives you a real idea of just how impactful this telescope can be.

It’s really impressive to look out into the field and see the huge dish – which measures 2.3 acres in size – sitting there with all of its interwoven pieces of metal. Up close, it is massive, but from a distance, it looks like a basket.

When you arrive and take a tour, you’ll also find a few other things to check out. There’s a café here that is perfect for a lunchtime stop. You can book a guided bus tour if you like, which is the best way to really explore and learn about the area. We found it to be excellent and asked lots of questions. If you don’t want to do that, it is possible to follow a self-guided tour around the location. That’s a great way to check everything out at your own pace. Don’t forget to stop in the gift shop as well.

History Behind The Greenbank Radio Telescope

The Green Bank telescope was built from 1990 to 2000. It first turned out in August of 2000. Regular operations began in 2001. Once online, it was one of the most impressive astronomical tools available to the National Science Foundation.

Prior to the construction of the Green Bank telescope, the location in Green Bank, West Virginia, was the home to another telescope, a 90.44 m paraboloid telescope that was first put into place in October of 1961. That telescope collapsed in 1988 after a failure of a gusset plate. It took a significant amount of time to build the current telescope.

How To Get To The Greenbank Radio Telescope

The Green Back Telescope is a part of the Green Bank Observatory. It’s located in the Monongahela National Forest. If you are coming from the north, take I-79 S to RT 33 East and then turn right on 92 S. If you are coming from the South, take I-77 N to I-64 E and then turn right on 92 N.

One of the most important things to know when visiting the Green Bank Observatory is that you can’t use a GPS unit to get here. Even your phone may not be reliable. That’s because the area does not have a good signal (on purpose!) Be sure to write down the route to take before arriving while you do have a signal. The roads here are also quite rough in spots as these really are back country roads.

Important Info & Tours

It’s recommended that you book a time to visit in advance of when you arrive. There are limited timeslots and availability in the area. There is a screening process that requires you to provide your name, birthday, where you live, citizenship information, and other data. That’s because the area is home to so much restricted technology that they have to safeguard it. Though, this is only required for behind the scenes tours. Your basic routine tours do not require screening or a reservation.

There are some routine tours, including Public Telescope Tours, which do not require a full screening process. The tours happen every hour from 10 to 5, but space is limited.

Need somewhere to stay while visiting Snowshoe? Casago has you covered. Check out our stunning ski condos and cozy cabins available to book for your next WV getaway. Casago's best-in-class guest service will provide you with something that's truly priceless: peace of mind. Browse & book online or give us a call at (844) 650-6000; we're here to help!