Visiting the ‘quietest town’ in the world and intending to share your experiences with friends and family while you’re there might be more challenging than expected.
Many of us are accustomed to having our smartphones with us at all times.
We rely on them for navigation using Google Maps, check social media updates on Instagram and TikTok, and enjoy music on Spotify.
However, in one particular town in America, you won’t be doing any of that. These activities are practically impossible since they’re prohibited.
Green Bank, West Virginia, a community with just 52 residents as of 2023, has banned WiFi and other wireless devices.
This area is designated as a quiet zone, meaning you won’t be updating your social media as the town is devoid of phone signals and radio waves.
The restriction is in place to avoid interference with scientific research nearby. The town hosts a large telescope and other equipment from the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, which could be disrupted by wireless devices.
The documentary “Small Town Universe” explores this location and even delves into the myths surrounding it, such as the alleged secret network of nuclear bunkers beneath the telescope.
A report by the Daily Mail features insights from the film’s director, Katie Dellamaggiore, who explained her fascination with the town.
She remarked, “The town’s unique, unplugged lifestyle immediately caught my attention.”
“It was even more intriguing that scientists use the Green Bank Telescope to explore some of science’s biggest mysteries, like how the universe began and whether there’s intelligent life beyond Earth.”
“The residents of this tiny Appalachian town aren’t connected in most modern ways, but over time, I observed a more profound connection they shared, bonded by the pursuit of scientific knowledge.”
Dellamaggiore found that simply being in the town altered her behavior.
She noted that she was becoming less dependent on her phone and began to appreciate the tranquility.
Despite her enjoyment, the locals are growing weary of the limited internet access. They are starting to demand more connectivity, which could pose a threat to the quiet zone.
Reflecting on this, Dellamaggiore said, “While I understand the desire for access to commonplace technology, it’s disheartening to think that one of the last intentional quiet zones may soon become a thing of the past. We should strive to preserve this unique place on Earth.”