Get an up-close look at two of our large research telescopes, the Harlan J. Smith and Hobby-Eberly.

Duration: Approximately 90-120 minutes

Audience: All ages

Includes General Admission

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What to Expect

The Guided Tours begin in the Visitors Center with a brief introduction.

The group then heads up Mount Locke to learn about the history of the Observatory and visit the 107-inch Harlan J. Smith Telescope.

The tour continues to the summit of Mount Fowlkes and the Hobby-Eberly Telescope. There, you’ll learn about that telescope’s unique design and the current research done here.

Important Considerations

  • Though you will get to see the telescopes, you will not be able to look through them.
  • Please arrive on time. Refunds are not available for those who arrive after the tour group has left the Visitors Center.
  • On rare occasions, we have to alter the tour to accommodate research activities, large numbers of visitors, or severe weather.
  • The telescope dome floors can be cold, especially in the winter.

Transportation During the Tour

Visitors may drive their own vehicle or ride in the Observatory shuttle.

Shuttle seating is limited. Priority is given to:

  • Those with mobility and/or respiratory issues.
  • Those in RVs or pulling a trailer. Such vehicles are not allowed at the summits due to steep grades and difficulty parking and turning around.

Change of Plans?

Learn about cancelling or rescheduling your visit.

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