how do i register?
- Click the blue "RSVP" button on the event home page.
- Search for your invitation by entering your email address.
- Select the number of people in your party (including yourself)!
- Enter your name as you wish it to appear on your name tag.
- Enter your the name(s) of your guest(s).
- Answer the registration questions.
- When your registration is completed, you should receive an automated confirmation email. Check your spam folder if you don't receive it!
- Be sure to share the event details with your guests!
how do I get there?
McDonald Observatory is located about 415 miles west of San Antonio, TX and 195 miles east of El Paso, TX. We are located in the Central Time Zone. If you are traveling from out of state, the closest commercial airports are located in El Paso, TX or Midland, TX. There is an AmTrak train station located in Alpine, TX (45 miles away from the Observatory) which is serviced by the Sunset Limited line (Los Angeles - New Orleans).
For driving directions and important tips about filling up your gas tank, read more on our website.
Where should I stay?
Lodging in the region is limited! We recommend you book early.
Fort Davis is the closest town to McDonald Observatory (15 miles away). Visit the Fort Davis Chamber of Commerce website for area accommodations. There is an array of hotels, motels, cabins, and campsites to choose from. Other nearby towns include: Marfa, TX (37 miles) and Alpine, TX (45 miles away). Many visitors book private homes through VRBO.
A very limited number of rooms are available in the Astronomers Lodge at McDonald Observatory - please note these rooms are not suitable for people with special mobility requirements. For enquiries, please reach out to lodge manager, Karen Sulewski at a.lodge@astro.as.utexas.edu and let her know you are interested in lodging for the Orion Festival.
What should i wear?
Comfort is king! Make sure you are wearing comfortable footwear, and bring warm layers for the evening stargazing program. Though the days are warm, temperatures drop very quickly in the mountains after the sun sets. If you are joining us for the optional daytime activities, pack sunglasses and a hat to protect you from the Texas sun.
what about special mobility and respiratory needs?
The Orion Festival's facility tours and evening stargazing activities on Mt. Locke are not suitable for wheelchairs. However, if you are able to walk short distances with a walker or cane, stand for a certain period of time and climb a some amount of stairs, we can work with you to access most activities. Let us know beforehand so we can plan accordingly. Email friends@mcdonaldobservatory.org.
Part of the evening stargazing activities will take place using telescopes on Mt. Locke which has an elevation of approximately 6,800 feet (~2,073 meters) above sea level. The relatively thin air can cause difficulties for guests with respiratory sensitivities or issues.
For our wheelchair-bound guests, we can accommodate you at our standard Star Party events with prior notice. Call or email the membership office for future Star Party reservations.
should I bring my kids/grandkids?
Though the event is designed with adults (and young adults) in mind, we welcome chaperoned Friends of all ages! Please note that our staff cannot keep an eye on your young people; be mindful of their safety and whereabouts at all times.
Daytime activities: Suitable for all ages! If your young person loves science and big telescopes, there is a lot to enjoy. For those with wandering attentions, our science talks and tours may be more suitable after a few more birthdays.
Nighttime activities: Telescope viewing on Mt. Locke takes place on top of a mountain at night. In order to ensure the safety of our visitors and staff, children under the age of 8 are not permitted to attend the festival's nighttime activities.
Want to talk through your specific situation? Call or email the membership office to chat!
What else can I do in the Fort Davis area?
Fort Davis National Historic site - Fort Davis, TX: Visit one of the best surviving examples of an Indian Wars’ frontier military post in the Southwest. nps.gov/foda
Trail Rides on Horseback: Hit the trail on a Prude Ranch Trail Ride. www.prude-ranch.com/trail-rides
Chinati Foundation - Marfa, TX: Book a tour to view the collections of the Chinati Foundation.Open Thursday‑Saturday. chinati.org/visit-chinati
Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center: This 500-acre facility boasts exhibits, a greenhouse and botanical center, and picturesque hikes featuring spectacular views of the Davis Mountains. The Center is open regularly Monday through Saturday. www.cdri.org