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Home to one of the largest civilian archives of land images in the world, USGS EROS is open to tours on weekdays. Learn about the Landsat satellite program, view imagery of our planet, and walk the historic halls of the data center.

Our Planet's Changing Face: Documented, Studied & Shared

Video Transcript
Since 1973, the EROS Center is responsible for acquiring Earth observations, archiving that data, and developing applications for the data to learn more about our planet.

Plan Your Visit

color photograph
The exterior of the Earth Resources Observation and Science Center.

Individuals, families, classrooms, and other organizations are all welcome to visit EROS. A free one-hour walking tour brings remote sensing science to life with satellite models, large displays, and knowledgeable staff. 

EROS is open Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff-guided tours are available at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Self-guided tours are welcome anytime. 

Group tours and larger gatherings are welcome with notice. Tours can be scheduled during business hours on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please call 605-594-6511 or email gs_eros_outreach@usgs.gov for scheduling or further information. 

The science center is located about ten miles north of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Free parking passes will be issued at the security checkpoint upon arrival before proceeding to the parking lot, located near the front of the building. Tours can be customized to different age levels, knowledge levels, and interests.

 

Know Before You Go

Map to USGS EROS Center
Map to USGS Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center.

The EROS Director’s Office and Facilities Management are dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for visitors to our facility. The following information is intended to inform EROS visitors of the safety and security requirements to better ensure that everyone has an enjoyable visit.

 

Parking

All public visitors’ vehicles and persons are screened prior to being allowed access onto Federal property. All visitors must stop at the main gate to receive additional instructions. A parking pass will be issued, and you will be directed to the visitor parking lot.

 

Security Checkpoint

Upon entering the main lobby, you will be processed through a security checkpoint. Bring only items that are necessary. Cameras and video recorders are allowed inside the facility with some restrictions.

Animals are not allowed on Federal property unless they are documented working animals with a valid license or certification to do so.

 

Government-Issued ID

USGS requires all visitors to present government-issued identification for access to its facilities. 

Visitors aged 18 or older will be required to present valid government-issued photo identification (Federal, State, or local), such as a driver's license, an enhanced driver license, or a passport. Visitors under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult (parent, sponsor, or guardian) that can verify identities. All public visitors driving a vehicle must have a driver license.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Aerial photo of the EROS science center
Aerial photo of the EROS Center.

What time are tours at EROS?

EROS is open Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Staff-guided tours are available at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Self-guided tours are welcome anytime. 

Are there group tours at EROS?

Group tours and larger gatherings are welcome with notice. Tours can be scheduled during business hours on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please call 605-594-6511 or email gs_eros_outreach@usgs.gov for scheduling and further information. 

Is there a cost?

There is no cost to visit EROS. The tour and parking are both free to the visitor.

Does EROS accommodate for disabilities?

EROS strives to be an accessible and accepting destination. The Center is equipped with wheelchair-accessible parking, ramps, and exhibits. Videos throughout the exhibits are captioned. All entrances are at the ground-level. Restrooms throughout the center are accessible to visitors with disabilities. 

Feel free to call the center with specific question about accessibility options.

Where is the EROS Center located?

The science center is located about 10 miles north of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The address is: 

47914 252nd Street

Sioux Falls, SD 57198