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.

Astronomy Day: What is Astronomy?

What is astronomy? What exactly do astronomers study? Is all astronomy the same? Join your friends at McDonald Observatory as we explore the answers to these questions and more! In celebration of Astronomy Day on September 27th, McDonald Observatory, along with some guest astronomers, will explain the exciting universe of astronomy.

This session is geared towards grades K-8, but all ages will enjoy and learn in this session.

  • Cost: Free
  • Grades K-8
  • Dates and Times: September 23: 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. CT
  • Length: 45 minutes

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

 

Observing the Moon with McDonald Observatory

Get "Lunar-y" with us as we talk all about observing the moon. October 4 is International Observe the Moon Night. What better time to brush up on your moon facts and myths, moon craters and phases? We will make a model that shows moon phases and talk about eclipses and tides. We will share a fun moon crater activity. We'll also talk about how and when to observe the moon.

  • Cost: Free
  • Grades: K-8
  • Dates and Times: 
    • September 30: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m.
    • October 1: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m.
    • All times are in CT
  • 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.