POCAHONTAS COUNTY W.Va. (WVDN) – Did you know there’s a science center in Pocahontas County, West Virginia? Sure, if you’ve been to Green Bank, then you’ve seen the telescope as you drove by, but have you been to the Observatory?
The Green Bank Observatory invites the public to explore radio astronomy through hands-on exhibits, guided tours and kid-friendly programs. The Observatory houses the Green Bank Telescope and sits within the National Radio Quiet Zone to protect delicate cosmic signals.
The telescope’s purpose is to observe the universe in radio wavelengths, helping scientists study pulsars, galaxies, cosmic evolution and transient phenomena. Its remote location minimizes radio interference, ensuring high-quality data for ongoing research. The Green Bank Telescope (GBT) has been a central facility since its completion in the late 2000s, continuing a long tradition of radioastronomy research at Green Bank.
Recently, my husband, my grandson and I went on a day trip exploring the Observatory. When we entered the building, we walked directly into the Atrium area. It definitely has a wow factor and a stunning view. We then walked right over to the Exhibit Hall and did the free hands-on activities; the 1-hour tours are $10 per person (six and up), with group rates available. However, special tours run 45–60 minutes and offer more options for $8 to $25 per person.
Besides the hands-on activities, there are interactive exhibits, SETI demonstrations and build-your-own detector experiences. Offering family programs, star parties are free; family science labs are free; and star labs, 45 minutes are $8 per person and provide age-appropriate activities and live demonstrations. The Galaxy Gift Shop offers astronomy-themed gifts and collectible souvenirs, which I thought were priced reasonably in comparison to other gift shops. If you’re hungry, stop by the Starlight Café, offering affordable prices located in the Atrium, and takeout is available.
Visitors should power off all wireless devices or leave them in their vehicles to protect observations. The observatory sits within a 13,000-square-mile National Radio Quiet Zone; guests are asked to avoid transmissions to preserve data quality. The site offers accessible paths and facilities, and advance notice will help them arrange accommodations.
The Green Bank Observatory is more than a research campus; it’s a high-tech village where engineers, technicians, computer scientists, machinists, and astronomers collaborate to push the boundaries of space science. Viewing the universe from Green Bank blends discovery with the serenity of West Virginia’s mountains, making it a memorable destination for families, students, and travelers.
You should plan for about two hours to take it all in, with extra time for a tour or special event. They recommend dressing for changing weather; the hillside can be uneven.
Fall and Winter Hours are Thursday through Monday, 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m; Tuesday and Wednesday are closed.
The Observatory has an upcoming event on November 29, the Turkey Trot, held annually. All proceeds benefit the William Dilley Scholarship Fund and the Pocahontas County High School track team.
A day trip to the Green Bank Observatory offers a chance to explore the universe and witness cutting-edge astronomy in a stunning, remote setting. It’s a must-visit for science lovers. It is budget-friendly, and I highly recommend visiting the Science Center. It’s worth the trip! Also, my teenage grandson really enjoyed it, and teenagers can be difficult to entertain these days. Cass Scenic Road is a short 10 miles away, making it easy to visit both of these destinations on your day trip, enjoying the Fall foliage in Pocahontas County.
For more information or information on tours, call: 304-456-2150.
