McDonald Observatory

Energy & Environment

The world's largest international dark sky reserve is helping UT scientists study the universe

Alexa K. Haverlah

In April, the International Dark Sky Association certified the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve. The reserve allows for astronomical research and minimizes the impact of light pollution on humans and ecology.
Science

Young, Large, and in Fast Orbit: Texas Astronomers Find New Exoplanet

From Marfa Public Radio: This week Texas astronomers announced their discovery of a giant new exoplanet. It’s a young planet: only 11 million years old.…
Energy & Environment

Discovery at UT's McDonald Observatory May Help Scientists Learn How Planets Evolve

From Marfa Public Radio: It’s a warm afternoon on top of Mount Locke in Far West Texas, but inside and under the dome of the oldest telescope here,…
Science

Kepler Space Telescope Discovers Most Earth-like Planet to Date

Rhonda Fanning

From Texas Standard:Big news this morning from NASA’s planet-hunting mission: The Kepler Space Telescope at the University of Texas' McDonald Observatory…