The McDonald Observatory / StarDate Online Gift Shop
Get yourself a McDonald Observatory cap, a Star Party "T", or work on that brain-power with a fine selection of books and McDonald Observatory publications. It's all a click away at the The McDonald Observatory / StarDate Online Gift Shop.

Commemorative Sundial Court Pavers
Be the first to write your name in a walkway to the stars by purchasing a Commemorative Sundial Court Paver at the new McDonald Observatory Visitors Center!

The Public Observatory
Learn more about our Public Observatory, its telescopes and other equipment, its benefactors, the programs conducted there, and the people who keep it running.

Internet Links
Here are some of the Internet links that we find ourselves using - they should be valuable to you as well.

Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions concerning your visit, visit our FAQ section.

Collaborations in Education
StarTec: State of the Art Telescope Education Collaboration
SCOPE: Southwestern Consortium of Observatories for Public Education

Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions concerning your visit, visit our FAQ section.

Now Available: Online reservations for public daytime programs (Solar Viewing/Guided Tour)
and our evening Twilight Program

Experienced Amateur Astronomer Volunteers
needed at the Frank N. Bash Visitors Center

NEW! Lunar Viewing Program Join us for a guided tour of our nearest neighbor in space, the Moon, during our new Lunar Viewing Program. Explore mountain ranges, craters, and other features through a large telescope. Seats are limited, so call soon!

NEW! Gift Cards The Visitors Center now has Gift Cards available for use in our Gift Shop, Café, and for our public programs. Not for online purchases

Mission Statement

• To inform, educate, and inspire the general public and support teaching in the science and hobby of astronomy through accessible, engaging, and entertaining programs.
• Our outreach programs promote awareness of the universe, encourage further exploration, and advance the research and educational missions of McDonald Observatory and the University of Texas at Austin.