McDonald Observatory
The University of Texas observatory on Mount Locke in the Davis Mountains, home to the Hobby-Eberly Telescope. Its evening Star Parties are the most popular activity.
The McDonald Observatory sits near the summit of Mount Locke at roughly 2,000 m in the Davis Mountains. It is one of the darkest skies in the United States and houses several large research telescopes, including the Hobby-Eberly Telescope. The visitor center has exhibits, and daytime programs include solar observing and telescope tours. The evening Star Party uses multiple telescopes to show nebulae and planets. These are held on set nights each week, and they often sell out in peak season, so book tickets on the official website in advance. The observatory is about 65 km north of Marfa. The route goes through Fort Davis and climbs the hills via Highway 118. Watch for deer on the mountain roads at night.
Opening hours
Visitor center open by day; stargazing parties by session (check the official website)
Nearby sights
- Davis Mountains Scenic Loop
- Davis Mountains State Park
- Fort Davis National Historic Site
- Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center & Botanical Gardens
- Presidio County Courthouse
- Hotel Paisano
- Judd Foundation Marfa
- Balmorhea State Park