Special viewings on the 36-inch telescope are paused through summer 2026 to allow for important updates and maintenance to preserve the ongoing operations of this historic telescope.
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Audience: Ages 8+
Capacity: 14-15 people
Includes General Admission
About Special Viewing Nights
On select nights throughout the year, we offer special viewing programs on our large research telescopes: the 36-inch telescope and the 82-inch Otto Struve Telescope. These programs offer amazing views in an intimate and historic setting.
People often ask which Special Viewing Night program is best for them. These programs are appropriate for visitors of any experience level. The 36-inch telescope is larger than many people have ever had the opportunity to experience. The Otto Struve 82-inch is one of the largest telescopes in the world routinely made available for public viewing. We’re confident that you’ll be impressed with the views no matter your choice.
Program dates are posted according to the research needs of the Observatory.
What to Expect
Our 36-inch (0.9m) research telescope is a powerful window on the universe, providing outstanding views of planets, star clusters, nebulae and galaxies.
Targets vary with season, but some of our favorites are planets such as Jupiter and Saturn, globular clusters such as M13 and nebulae such as M42 (the Orion Nebula). We’re also sure to visit some galaxies far, far away! The program is designed to provide views of a wide variety of types of objects to give visitors a taste of all the Universe has to offer.
The intimate setting, small group size, and amazing views make the Special Viewing Night on the 36-inch telescope a favorite among visitors and staff alike!
Important Considerations
- The 36-inch dome is NOT wheelchair accessible. This program involves the use of a step ladder and takes place in a space with low levels of illumination.
- It is NOT possible to participate in both a Star Party and a Special Viewing Night program on the same night.
- In order to ensure the safety of our visitors and staff, guests under the age of 8 are not permitted to attend this program. Families with children under 8 are encouraged to attend our Star Party program.
What Happens If It’s Cloudy
When the weather is expected to prevent all views of the night sky, we provide alternative programming in the form of an up-close tour of the telescope. At least two hours before the Special Viewing Night’s scheduled start time, we will send a notification to the email associated with the reservation indicating the change and offering a refund, if desired.
Where to Stay
Before you sign up, be sure to check out our remote location. Fort Davis is the nearest town to the Observatory and boasts several hotels, motels, and B&Bs. The Fort Davis Chamber of Commerce maintains an extensive list of area accommodations. The Chamber sites of Alpine (~ 45 miles) and Marfa (~ 37 miles) also list area lodging.
The 36-inch telescope is located near the summit of Mount Locke. Overnight accommodation at the Astronomers Lodge, also located on Mount Locke, may be available for participants.
Waitlists
Waitlists are available through our reservation system. If tickets become available, the system will email anyone on the waitlist who needs that number of tickets or fewer. The first customer to purchase the tickets gets them.
Friends of McDonald Observatory receive advanced notice of the Special Viewing schedule.
Change of Plans?
Learn about cancelling or rescheduling your visit.