One of the country's major astronomical research institutions, McDonald Observatory has four impressive telescopes. The largest--the 9.2 m (30 ft) Hobby-Eberly telescope--ranks amongst the largest in the world. Stop by the observatory visitor center to see the staff in action and learn more about their projects and programs, as well as the science of space. Join a guided tour for inside access, or even watch live telescopic images of the sun during a solar viewing session. Be sure to book ahead online, however, as tickets can sell out very quickly. Set at an elevation of 2,070 m (6,790 ft) in the mountains of West Texas, the observatory is part of the University of Texas at Austin, and works closely with its science departments. Plan my trip to Fort Davis with suggested itineraries provided by Inspirock.
McDonald Observatory reviews
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Unfortunately the Star Party night we went was cloudy & had some rain. They offered refunds but since we were only able to go that night we went anyway. They made t enjoyable & educational even...
Unfortunately the Star Party night we went was cloudy & had some rain. They offered refunds but since we were only able to go that night we went anyway. They made t enjoyable & educational even... more »
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Of all the telescopes that you're allowed to visit, one of them was closed, the other has a tiny lobby with little to no information but the HET telescope has an abundance of interesting videos...
Of all the telescopes that you're allowed to visit, one of them was closed, the other has a tiny lobby with little to no information but the HET telescope has an abundance of interesting videos... more »
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Absolutely breathtaking experience! Everybody is really friendly and willing to discuss the observatory with you. All of the visitors exhibits are cool and help explain the substance and purpose behind these massive telescopes. I definitely recommend making the drive out to the middle of nowhere to visit this place. There is honestly a little more to it than I imagined. Just one note, they do not take American Express.
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I love astronomy and everything about space. This place was jaw dropping. We went on the self guided tour. I loved every minute I was up on those summits. I don’t want to say to much about the experience because you need to see it yourself if you go. It does require you to drive up to the summits. I don’t know what it’s like on the guided tour. An amazing place for someone who likes astronomy and space stuff.
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