Constructed in 1958 this telescope was the first radio telescope located at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia. Astronomers used this telescope to examine large radio objects in space, including other solar systems. Following the construction of two of 85-foot radio telescopes at the observatory, the Tatel telescope would become a part of the Green Bank Interferometer, from 1978 to 2000. Despite the Tatel Telescope only expected to function for 20 years it remained active for over 40 years. Operations by the Tatel telescope stopped on October 6, 2000, while the other two 85-foot telescopes continued their contracted work on different projects.
This antenna is a replica of the original used by Karl Jansky to make the first successful detection of radio waves from space. Jansky's only contribution to radio astronomy was in 1932, but his work inspired other to continue his research. Grote Reber recommended the creation of this replica to National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia. The NRAO created a lectureship program in his honor, awarded annually to scientists who contribute to radio astronomy. Today the Jansky Antenna Replica is located at the entrance to the Green Bank Observatory beside the Reber Telescope.
The Reber Telescope was invented in the backyard of a home in Illinois owned by Grote “George” Reber (1911-2002). The telescope was made for the purpose of studying radio astronomy. Based off the discovery of Karl Janskys, radio astronomy is the study of radio waves from space. With the help of the telescope and Grote Reber’s diligent study, Reber made waves in the new-founded study of radio astronomy. From 1938 to 1948 this telescope was used by Reber for personal research into radio astronomy. Relocated to the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia, the Reber Telescope can still function as a radio telescope. The Antique Commission of the State of West Virginia had it placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. In 1989 the Reber telescope was also declared a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service.
The Green Bank Observatory, nestled within the community of Green Bank in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, is home to the Green Bank Telescope, the largest fully steerable telescope in the world. Green Bank Observatory houses a significantly distinct center of science that offers a fun, yet educational experience. This museum is dedicated to sharing the history of the observatory, the science behind its mission, and the wonders of the cosmos. Visitors to the museum can also learn about the history of the region from local residents who provide tours and information.
This Tour is a Walking Tour.
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This short Clio tour guides visitors through the Green Bank observatory of West Virginia. The tour is unique in the fact that it can only be used at a distance as Green Bank is a no-cellphone area owing to the needs of the observatory.
