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Star Party

  • McDonald Observatory 3640 Dark Sky Drive Fort Davis, TX, 79734 United States (map)

Enjoy night sky constellation tours in the Helen S. Martin Star Amphitheater and views of celestial objects through a number of telescopes in the Rebecca Gale Telescope Park behind the Visitors Center. Star Parties are approximately two hours in length and are fun for the entire family. Check in at the Frank N. Bash Visitors Center at 3640 Dark Sky Dr., Fort Davis, TX 79734.

To ensure program participation, make advance reservations. Star Parties frequently sell out during busy periods like Spring Break and major holidays. Even on an average night, it is not uncommon for 300 people to be in attendance. We may be in the "middle of nowhere" but we do see some large crowds!

Dress appropriately for the weather. The Star Party takes place outdoors. During fall through early spring, consider bundling up, as temperatures can be in the 30s or colder. Our amphitheater seating consists of stone benches, so feel free to bring a pad or blanket for added comfort.

In the event that weather is likely to prevent views of the night sky, Visitors Center reservations staff will contact (via text and email) program participants to explain available options. Please be sure to include your mobile phone number and email address when making your reservation.

Reschedules and Refunds:  On cloudy nights, refunds (minus a $3 processing fee) may be offered. Refunds may only be claimed on the night of the program. Except for weather emergencies (flooding, snow, ice, etc), no-shows will not be rescheduled or refunded.

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June 6

Found in the Stars: A Space Voyage

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June 14

To the Moon and Back: A Human Performance Accelerator Lab Family Experience