In Pocahontas County, West Virginia, you can experience an adventure that’s out of this world — literally! The Green Bank Observatory is a place where science and discovery come together, giving you the chance to explore the universe from right here in the mountains.
The Green Bank Observatory is home to the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope (GBT), the largest fully steerable radio telescope in the world. Standing 485 feet tall and weighing 17 million pounds, this massive telescope captures faint natural radio signals emitted by sources deep in space.
A Quiet Place For Big Discoveries
Green Bank sits inside the National Radio Quiet Zone (NRQZ), a 13,000-square-mile area where radio signals are restricted to prevent interference with scientific research. Because of this, visitors are asked to turn off their cell phones and other wireless devices when they arrive. It’s one of the few places left where quiet still means quiet — and where you can really unplug.
The NRQZ was established by the federal government in 1958 to reduce interference for both the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank and the radio receiving facilities for the United States Navy in Sugar Grove (around 50 miles from Green Bank). The zone stretches from the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia into the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and even into a sliver of the Maryland panhandle.
Sugar Grove Station is a National Security Agency (NSA) communications site originally built by the Naval Research Laboratory as a radio receiving station. From here, the Navy once gathered communications from around the world. Although the Navy decommissioned its base at Sugar Grove in 2015, NSA operations still continue today. This ongoing presence is part of what makes this area such an interesting blend of past and present technology.
This quiet, remote part of West Virginia recently got the attention of Hollywood. The NRQZ inspired the setting of Captain America: Brave New World, the latest movie in the Marvel series. The idea of an off-the-grid location made it the perfect spot for a high-tech adventure. For movie fans, it’s a fun connection — and a great reason to come see the real place behind the story.
Things to Do At Green Bank Observatory
A visit to Green Bank Observatory is a hands-on experience. Start at the Science Center, where interactive exhibits break down how scientists explore the universe using radio waves.
Hop on a guided bus tour to get an overview of the grounds. The tour includes an introductory video, a presentation and a look at how the observatory’s instruments and discoveries have evolved from the 1930s to today. Curious to see more? Join a behind-the-scenes tour to peek inside historic telescopes, speak with radio astronomers and learn about the electronic labs and control room.
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, you can take a free, self-guided walking tour to see the telescopes up close. When you’re ready for a break, grab a bite at the Starlight Café. Before you go, swing by the Galaxy Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and West Virginia-made goods.
Explore The Outdoors
The observatory also has a network of trails for hiking and biking. The beginner-friendly routes let you ride or walk through a landscape surrounded by scientific discovery, making it a fun stop for families and outdoor lovers. The routes at Green Bank offer a combination of paved roads, turf and forest terrains.
Stargazing and Special Events
Every summer, Green Bank Observatory hosts a Star Party, where attendees can use optical telescopes to take in one-of-a-kind views of the night sky. Throughout the year, other events and educational programs give visitors a chance to learn more about astronomy in a unique setting.
Plan Your Trip
Whether you’re inspired by the latest Captain America movie or just curious about the universe, Green Bank Observatory is a must-visit destination. Request a free Adventure Guide to find more hidden gems in Pocahontas County and start planning your trip!