On the 16-inch Telescope

Ticket price: $30 (evening programs) | $15 (daytime programs)

Our Lunar Viewing Program is the closest you can get to a guided tour of the Moon, next to hitching a ride on a rocket.  Through telescope observing, staff presentations and guided activities, participants in the Lunar Viewing Program will conduct an in-depth exploration of our nearest cosmic neighbor, the Moon.  Take a whirlwind tour of the lunar surface using our 16” telescope and state of the art imaging equipment.  Then use the eyepiece for a more intimate view of select targets, while a digital image of the same features is simultaneously presented on a large video monitor for all to see.

Typical observing targets include large craters, mountain ranges and other geological formations, as well as Apollo landing sites.  In addition to telescope viewing, the program includes activities and presentations highlighting the formation of the moon, surface geological features, craters, moon phases and the Apollo missions.

Scheduled dates and times for this program will vary depending on lunar phase and time of year.  Seating is limited and reservations are required.  The Lunar Viewing Program is approximately 3 hours in length and takes place both outdoors and in an unheated dome.

We are offering the following Lunar Viewing Programs, each with a limited capacity. Due to cancellations, sometimes we have a few seats become available in the few days leading up to a particular program date. If you can join us on short notice, please call our Visitors Center (432-426-3640) to check on any availability not listed here.

The dates listed below are the only dates we currently have available for reservations. Once other dates become available, they will be posted here. If a date you're interested in is not listed below, please consider one of our other Special Viewing programs or the regularly scheduled Star Party at the Visitors Center. No other Lunar Viewing Programs will be held other than those listed below.

View the Moon during the day?

Why, yes ... the Moon is quite visible during the day at certain phases. Join us for a daytime view of the Moon and you may never think of the sunlit sky quite the same again!

Our daytime LVP is a somewhat shorter version of our nighttime program but covers much of the same information. This is a great program for those who may not be able to join us for one of our popular Star Party programs. Depending on the exact schedule for the program you join, you may be able to plan on joining one of our daytime programs during your visit, as well.

Participants should plan to arrive at the Visitors Center at least 15 minutes before the program start time. Once assembled, the group will walk a short distance (500 feet) to our 16" telescope dome. Total program length is approximately 3 hours.

The fee for this program is $30 per participant for evening programs, and $15 for daytime programs.

To purchase your tickets or receive additional information, please call our Visitors Center at (432) 426-3640. Reservations are required for this program even if you're a member of our Friends of McDonald Observatory program. Also, reservations for the viewing do not include Astronomer's Lodge reservations should you choose to stay with us (see information to right).

DRESS WARMLY!!! Temperatures vary quite a bit at our elevation (6,300-6,800 feet above sea level) and are usually much cooler than other areas of Texas. The mountain air can cool as much as 20 degrees after sunset and most of the Lunar Viewing Program takes place outside under the stars. For summer make sure you bring at least a light jacket and long pants. For Fall, Winter, and early Spring programs, layer your attire and bring a warm coat, thermals, gloves, and something to keep your head warm.

Please also bring a SMALL flashlight for locating your car in the parking lot after the program concludes.

Due to low light conditions and late hours, this program is not suitable for children under 10. There may occasionally be unforeseen weather conditions and/or mechanical difficulties beyond our control that may force us to choose alternate objects to observe or even cancel our observing for that evening. In the event of program cancellation, refunds (less a $10 administrative fee) will be given. This program requires moderate physical agility. If you have any concerns please contact the Visitors Center by phone in advance at (432) 426-3640.