McDonald Observatory

Located in far West Texas, McDonald Observatory is a research unit of The University of Texas at Austin and its College of Natural Sciences. It’s one of the world's leading centers for groundbreaking astronomical research, instrument design, teaching, and public education and outreach. Since the dedication of its first telescope in 1939, McDonald Observatory has pursued leading-edge astronomical topics. Today’s research is advancing humanity’s knowledge of dark energy, exoplanets, black holes, and the chemical evolution of the Milky Way. Additionally, the Observatory is a founding partner in the Giant Magellan Telescope in Chile, a first in the next generation of extremely large telescopes. Perched atop Mount Locke and Mount Fowlkes in the Davis Mountains, McDonald Observatory’s facilities are part of the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve. Covering over 15,000 square miles, the reserve feature some of the darkest night skies in the continental U.S. This makes it a powerful setting for visitors to connect with the science and beauty of the cosmos! In a typical year, 75,000 people visit the Frank N. Bash Visitors Center to experience its Star Parties, guided tours, onsite exhibits, and more. The Observatory also offers award-winning programs for Texas educators, such as onsite workshops, field trips, distance learning, and classroom activities. To share astronomy with a wider audience, StarDate Radio program and StarDate magazine are available nationwide. Through its research, education, and outreach, McDonald Observatory is a powerful illustration that "What Starts Here, Changes the World!"