Green Bank Observatory (GBO) is a world-leading scientific research institution located in Green Bank, West Virginia, USA. Home to the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope, the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope (GBT), GBO is dedicated to advancing our understanding of the Universe through radio astronomy.
GBO operates as an international center for astronomical research and public outreach, working with partner institutions around the globe to enable cutting-edge science and technology development. Our scientific mission is to explore the Universe using radio waves, probe its earliest moments after the Big Bang, and search for signs of intelligent life beyond our planet Earth.
The GBT has had many remarkable discoveries since it began observing in 2000. These include detecting strange pulsars that appear to “flicker” on and off; finding evidence for how supermassive black holes can form; discovering new molecules in space; and much more! The GBT has also been used to study our own Solar System, by mapping out clouds of comets surrounding Jupiter and searching for water on Mars.
In addition to conducting cutting-edge science, GBO is committed to sharing the wonders of astronomy with everyone – regardless of their background or location. We offer a variety of public outreach programs that bring astronomers and telescope facilities like the GBT directly into schools and communities across North America. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers while providing everyone with opportunities to learn about the exciting frontier of astronomical research.