Call if you're visiting with a large party. Arecibo is administered by Cornell University through the National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center, and eagerly works with scientist and students from all over the world. If you are bringing a student group, set up a tour directly with the NAIC. On-site meetings can also be held at the observatory with prior approval. Write to Arecibo Observatory, HC03 Box 53995, Arecibo, PR 00612, or telephone (787) 878-2612.
Visit during the hours of operation: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Sunday, excluding holidays.
Travel from San Juan on Road 22 West, following signs for Arecibo for approximately 47 miles. Take exit 77B to Route 129 toward Lares. Follow 129 Southwest for two and a half miles, then take a left onto Route 635 and follow its turns for about five miles until you take a left onto Route 625. Follow the signs to the entrance gate.
Go to the 10,000-sq.-ft. visitors’ center and pay the admission: $6 for adults, $4 for children and seniors.
Watch the educational film that describes Arecibo’s history and its daily operation. You will learn that the observatory was formally opened on November 1, 1963. Among other features, the sheer size of the radio telescope (1,000 ft. in diameter, covering an area of 20 acres) contributes to making it the most sensitive radio telescope in the world. It is used in research and scientific observation, including the study of planets, moons, comets and asteroids. It has been instrumental in mapping surface areas on the moon, Mercury and Venus, and notes the emission of radio waves from distant galaxies, quasars and erupting stars. Additionally, it has featured prominently in movies both scientific ("Contact," 1997) and adventurous ("GoldenEye," 1995).
Browse the Arecibo exhibition halls.
View the massive radio telescope and its accompanying platforms, towers and antennae.
