Mythic Realms 2025 is bringing together an incredible lineup of guests, and we’re thrilled to welcome Dennis Egan, retired Senior Mechanical Engineer and Division Head of the Mechanical at the Green Bank Observatory. If you've ever been fascinated by space, radio astronomy, or the engineering behind some of the world’s most advanced telescopes, this is a presentation you won’t want to miss!
The Green Bank Observatory: Unlocking the Universe from the Heart of Appalachia
Nestled in the rolling hills of Pocahontas County, West Virginia, the Green Bank Observatory (GBO) is home to seven massive telescopes, the largest of which is the Green Bank Telescope (GBT), the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope. Towering at 485 feet tall with a dish measuring 100 meters across, the GBT is a marvel of engineering, capable of detecting faint radio signals from deep space. It plays a crucial role in exploring black holes, pulsars, distant galaxies, and even the search for extraterrestrial life.
But what makes Green Bank truly unique isn’t just the telescope—it’s the National Radio Quiet Zone (NRQZ). Established in 1958, this 13,000-square-mile protected zone spans parts of West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland, restricting radio transmissions to prevent interference with sensitive astronomical observations. That means no cell towers, no Wi-Fi, and highly limited radio signals—making it one of the last truly quiet places on Earth, at least in terms of electromagnetic noise.
Life in the Quiet Zone
Living and working within the NRQZ comes with its own set of challenges and adaptations. Residents of Green Bank and surrounding areas rely on landline phones, wired internet, and special shielding to prevent interference with the observatory’s work. Scientists, engineers, and staff members follow strict protocols to minimize electronic disruptions—even something as simple as a microwave or a gasoline engine can create interference strong enough to disrupt data collection. The result? A unique, peaceful environment where astronomers can hear the faintest whispers of the universe without modern electronic clutter.
Dennis Egan: Engineering the Future of Radio Astronomy
For years, Dennis Egan played a key role in maintaining and advancing the groundbreaking technology at Green Bank. As a mechanical engineer and division head, his expertise ensured the observatory’s instruments remained at the cutting edge of scientific discovery. During his presentation at Mythic Realms 2025, Dennis will take us behind the scenes, sharing stories about the challenges and triumphs of working with one of the most advanced telescopes in the world. Expect to hear insights into the mechanical marvels that make radio astronomy possible, the evolving science of Green Bank, and what it’s like to work in one of the most unusual research environments on the planet.
Don’t Miss This Unique Opportunity
Whether you're a space enthusiast, a science fiction lover, or just someone who enjoys learning about the hidden wonders of our world, this presentation is a must-see. Join us at Mythic Realms 2025, May 23rd-25th, at Battlers Knob in Philippi, WV, and discover the mysteries of the cosmos through the eyes of someone who helped unlock them!
