The Green Bank Observatory: West Virginia's Very Own Area 51

An Area 51 in West Virginia? Yep, and you can even go inside! You may be familiar with the huge radio telescope tucked away in Pocahontas County. But what you may not realize is this radio telescope (the biggest in the world) is listening for aliens. Sound bizarre? Like something out of a sci-fi novel? You can see for yourself with a tour at the Green Bank Observatory.

The Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope is always listening. The enormous fully steerable single-dish radio telescope is the largest in the world!

It is one of two telescopes in the U.S. involved in Breakthrough Listen, a project scanning stars and galaxies for extraterrestrial intelligence.

Now, you can get a guided tour and behind-the-scenes glimpse into the ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) at the Green Bank Observatory.

Hop on a bus and tour the facility. Take a look at this giant telescope up close that towers nearly 400 feet into the sky.

Afterward, return to the science center where you can check out the exhibit hall. Find out what discoveries have been made at Greenbank and the future of the SETI.

You'll want to stop by the Galaxy Gift Shop to pick up a few souvenirs or gifts for your space-loving friends.

Did you know that there was a giant telescope in West Virginia on the prowl for signs of extraterrestrial life?

Stop by the Green Bank Observatory Science Center Monday - Sunday from 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Start planning your visit to check out West Virginia's Area 51 today.

Have you ever visited this bizarre attraction in West Virginia? What did you learn about the search for extraterrestrial life? Share your experiences in the comments section below! Check out even more of West Virginia’s strange and unsettling spots here.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

West Virginia Has Its Own Area 51 And The Stories Behind It Are Truly Bizarre

Natalie Clunan

Author

Related Stories

6 Waterfront Retreats In West Virginia That Are Perfect For Warm Weather Adventures

This Massive Chicken Sandwich In West Virginia Comes With A Mountain Of Fries At 1st Place Cafe

The Incredible Hotel In West Virginia That Has Been Left In Ruins

Want more West Virginia in your inbox?

Related Articles