Distance Learning

Take your K-12 classroom on a virtual field trip to the McDonald Observatory! We invite students and teachers to join McDonald Observatory remotely from home or school for these exciting educational experiences.

PARTICIPATE IN AN UPCOMING PROGRAM

Find our programs and register at Connect2Texas. (Use the filter to find McDonald Observatory, University of Texas). Registration closes 3 days prior to any program.

 

Read Across America, Texas Style: The Astronaut Who Painted the Moon: The True Story of Alan Bean

It's Read Across America Day! We at McDonald Observatory are excited to read aloud the story of Alan Bean, an Apollo 12 astronaut, and the only artist to walk on the Moon.

The Astronaut Who Painted the Moon: The True Story of Alan Bean was written by Dean Robbins and illustrated by Sean Rubin. This book is published by Orchard Books, an imprint of Scholastic Inc.

  • Cost: Free
  • Grades: K-5
  • Dates and Times: March 2, at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m.
  • Length: 45 minutes

Register at Connect2Texas. (Use the filter to find McDonald Observatory, University of Texas). Registration closes 3 days prior to each program.

Earth Day: The Importance of Dark Skies

Have you ever wondered why some areas have more stars than others? Did you know light pollution not only changes how many stars are visible but also affects the environment? Join McDonald Observatory as we talk about light pollution, its effects, and how you can help save dark skies.

  • Cost: Free
  • Grades: K-8
  • Dates and Times: April 22 at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m.
  • Length: 45 minutes

Register at Connect2Texas. (Use the filter to find McDonald Observatory, University of Texas). Registration closes 3 days prior to each program.

INQUIRE ABOUT VIRTUAL VISITS

If you have any questions or wish to schedule a Custom Videoconference program, please send an inquiry to teachers@mcdonaldobservatory.org

Students participate in a video conference learning session with Observatory staff.

K-12 Education Program Support

 
We are grateful to the following organizations for their support of 2024 K-12 Education programs
  • The Alfred S. Gage Foundation
  • The Fash Foundation
  • The George and Cynthia Mitchell Foundation Educational Endowment
  • The Keenan and Gaines Educational Endowment for McDonald Observatory
  • The Meyer Levy Charitable Foundation
  • Dr. Mary Kay Hemenway McDonald Observatory Outreach and Education Excellence Fund
  • Mary Ann Rankin Endowment for McDonald Observatory for UTeach Workshops
  • Friends of McDonald Observatory 
You can help support our programs through a contribution to our Education and Outreach Intiatives, a Friends Membership, or planned gift.