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April 8: Total Solar Eclipse to Cross Texas

On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will travel across North America, with the Moon surrounded by the Sun’s delicate corona. Texas will be a great spot to experience it – the state is in the "path of totality" and typically enjoys clear, cloud-free weather. McDonald Observatory is not in the path of totality. However, we will be able to see a partial solar eclipse.

Partial Eclipse Events at McDonald Observatory

On Monday, April 8, parts of North America will experience a total solar eclipse. To see it, you must be within the “path of totality,” a narrow band about 100 miles wide. McDonald Observatory and surrounding communities are outside the path of totality, so will only see a partial eclipse. Those staying in the West Texas area are invited to celebrate the eclipse with us!

UT Astronomy Graduate Student Receives Fellowship to Study Exoplanets

The Heising-Simons Foundation has awarded Quang Tran, Ph.D. candidate in The University of Texas at Austin’s Department of Astronomy, one of its eight prestigious 51 Pegasi b Fellowships this year. Established in 2017, the fellowship provides postdoctoral scientists the opportunity to conduct theoretical, observational, and experimental research in planetary astronomy. 

UT Researcher Leading Project for NASA New Space Telescope

UT’s new Cosmic Frontier Center and McDonald Observatory will play key roles in aiding research into chemically young galaxies.

Work with the Stars! McDonald Observatory is hiring.

Work with McDonald Observatory

McDonald Observatory is currently hiring for positions located at the Observatory near beautiful Fort Davis, Texas. Join our team!