Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Canada
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Observatory · Alpine, Texas
McDonald Observatory
The University of Texas astronomical observatory in the Davis Mountains, at about 2,000 meters, with a visitor center, telescope tours and nighttime star‑viewing programs.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About McDonald Observatory
The McDonald Observatory of the University of Texas sits atop Mount Locke in the Davis Mountains, at about 2,000 meters. It was chosen for the dark, dry skies of West Texas—among the darkest in the United States—and has been operating since the 1930s.
The visitor center has exhibits about astronomy and the observatory’s telescopes. During the day, guided tours take you into the domes of some of the large research telescopes, and there are solar‑viewing programs.
At night, Star Parties bring visitors outdoors to view the sky with the naked eye and through smaller telescopes, with guides pointing out constellations. Night programs often sell out, and the sky needs to be clear for observing.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours, day or night.
Best time
On moonless, cloudless nights for observing; the sky is usually clearer in autumn and winter.
How to get there
About 70 km from Alpine via TX‑118, and about 25 km from Fort Davis. The road climbs the mountain.
Tip
Book night programs in advance and bring warm clothing: mountain nights are usually cold.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about McDonald Observatory
Do I need to reserve the McDonald Observatory night program?
Yes, it’s recommended: Star Parties often sell out. Check dates on the website.
How far is Alpine from the McDonald Observatory?
About 70 km, around a one‑hour drive.
What can you do during the day at the McDonald Observatory?
Visit the visitor center, take the guided tour of the telescopes, and attend the solar‑viewing program.