HILL COUNTRY EVENT CALENDARS
(pointerclick choice)
-------

Adventures & Fun Things
To Do


Art & Gallery Events

BBQ, Chili, Crawfish & Gumbo Cook-Off Events

Beer & Brewery Events

Car Shows

Festivals & Major Events

July 4th Independence Day Celebration Events

Livestock Shows

= = = =
Market Days,
By Type:


• Regularly Recurring Farmers,
Produce,
Trade, Flea,
Specialty
& Seasonal Markets


• Garage,
Rummage &
Community Sales

= = = =

Motorcycling Events

Pet Events

Quilting & Fiber Arts Events

Rodeo & Fair Events

Spirits & Distillery Events

Star Party Events

Veterans Day Events

VFD Fundraising Events

Wine & Winery Events


Life in the Texas Hill Country seems at times like a continuing festival. Just look at this list for fun or interesting things to do throughout our area. The range of themes is as varied as the locations.

Yes, there is overlap between these calendar categories, so be sure to check each dedicated page.

Further down the list are calendars for certain special, popular, focus topics in the Hill Country.

Also be sure to see the detailed navigation menu at the top of every page.

Use this "top of page" menu to check out any profile page in this Portal site to see full details for that town or county or focus topic.

Click for Free
Calendar
Event Submission


Click here for your
Every Hill Country organization can have a free listing on the Portal
basic Portal listing!


Click to see very cost-effective advertising opportunities on the Portal

FIRST CHOICE SHUTTERS
& BLINDS


First Choice Shutters & Blinds

Serving South-Central Texas
Quality window treatments
Plantation shutters, blinds, screens, shades
Wood and faux wood available
Made in America

Locally owned & operated:

Tim & Barbara Van Tassel
830-201-2151
timgvant@hotmail.com

Johnson City, TX
Call, email or text with questions or to arrange a no-obligation visit and quotation at your place.

Facebook

Fish Bird Guide Service

COFRAN'S PC &
TECHNOLOGY HELP

- - -
Online, Remote
Tech Support &
Call-In Help Desk


Virus? Frustrated?
PC slowed down?
We can tune it up!
Internet, Wi-Fi,
Websites,
Email, Outlook,
Social Media,
Tech Marketing,
Excel, Quickbooks,
Zoom, TeamViewer,
Carbonite
** PC Repairs **


BSEE, MBA, xCPA
Veteran, Tech Officer


281-300-7177
Johnson City
GeorgeCofran@Gmail.com
www.cofran.com


"The Web Guy"
WEB SITE DESIGN
& MAINTENANCE

Economical
& Effective

281-300-7177
Johnson City, TX
GeorgeCofran@Gmail.com
cofran.com




"Business Coach"

COST CONTROLS,
EFFICIENCY &
BETTER STRATEGIES
= MORE PROFIT !!

Economical
& Effective

281-300-7177
Johnson City, TX

GeorgeCofran@Gmail.com
cofran.com



Grapes




Click to see very cost-effective advertising opportunities on the Portal

Cofran's Texas . . .
Hill Country Portal


A Powerful Information Database & Gateway Service for the Texas Hill Country


pointer Use above MENU To Find "All Things In The Texas Hill Country"

Horizontal Line


Focus Topic Profile For:

CALENDAR OF STAR PARTIES
IN THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY


QUICK INDEX TO CATEGORIES (pointerclick choice)

THE BIG PICTURE ABOUT STAR PARTIES



Learn about our universe from local astronomy experts and enthusiasts. View planets, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters and celestial wonders. Learn about night-sky navigation. Look at constellations, planets, and deep-space objects through high-powered telescopes. The Texas Hill Country offers some of the darkest skies in Central Texas, making it one of the state's premier locations for stargazing, astrophotography, telescope observing, and astronomy education. Throughout the star party night you and your family can gaze at the constellations above, and even view galaxies far, far away through high powered telescopes. Note: This equipment is very expensive and often is privately owned, so it is appropriate for you to be very careful in being near this delicate equipment and using it.

The event staff folks are most often volunteers, and they are passionate about this hobby. Please treat them respectfully as they are devoting their personal time for your knowledge and enjoyment.

At many of these star parties, the staff will present a prepared presentation or topic class to help you advance your astronomy knowledge and this usually includes viewing the stars through their telescopes.

No equipment or astronomy experience needed for a star party.

A very quiet environment is in order so as to not disturb your fellow star gazers who are serious about this hobby. Common sense suggests adults should manage their children's activities and behavior. No running, shouting, music, lights, etc.

At most star party venues, all ages are welcome, however children typically must be accompanied by an adult.

For optimal viewing, these stargazing events are scheduled on weekends near the new moon each month.

Typically, event registration is not required. Some events charge a very minor fee to cover their incidentals.

We recommend arriving 5-10 minutes before the start of the session.


We welcome inquiries, comments and submission of updates, additions, corrections
& digital photos, without compensation. Send to:
editor@HillCountryPortal.com







WHAT TO BRING TO STAR PARTIES




At a given star party event location, and ahead of the event, management personnel of the venue will announce their rules about bringing items and other key things of importance for their event. From event to event, these may vary with expected weather conditions and planned activities. The event host likely will not have an inventory of these items for your use so you must bring your own. Most locations will not have accessible restroom facilities. Depending on predicted weather, you could need to bring appropriate clothing for that weather.

Be considerate of others when driving into an area where there is already star gazing underway. No bright vehicle lights, loud music or loud chatter. Most stargazing venues are located in a secluded area with minimal surrounding light and noise.

If you like, bring insect repellent, binoculars, folding chair, blanket, warmth jacket, rain jacket, cooler, water, soft drinks and snacks. At most locations, alcohol is not allowed. Note, the bigger the binoculars and with higher quality they can be an excellent tool to see the heavenly skies so much better than with the naked eye.

You likely will end up leaving most items in your vehicle but you can obtain them with a short hike should the need arise.

As a courtesy, be sure to clean up your area before leaving. Take your trash with you unless there are trash containers provided. Remember, virtually all organizers are volunteers and are responsible for the neatness of their borrowed area.

Bring a red-bulb flashlight. Note, the red light lessens the brightness of the light and thus is a courteous way to not over-impact your fellow star gazing guests. Change to fresh batteries to last the event duration.

Many venues allow you to bring your own telescope, but you are also welcome to use their expensive and powerful equipment.

Party sponsors will likely advise you in their published event announcement as to what to bring.

For seasonal Star Parties conditions, weather will likely vary depending on the season. Make adjustments for this in what you bring to the event. Most all venues are weather permitting, so check park updates before attending.

Be prepared as typically there are no nearby retail stores open at the evening operating hours of these star parties.

2026 STAR PARTIES LISTED CHRONOLOGICALLY




Jan 1, 2026 - NEW YEAR FIRST DAY HIKE & STAR GAZE: At most Texas State Parks. Start your new year with a walk in the park and star gazing at night! You can also attend a star party or enjoy a campfire. Life is better outdoors! Annual family event. Normal park entrance fees apply; no additional fee for hikes, star gazing or parking. Web. See our special Portal focus topic page on Hill Country: Parks & Lakes

Mar 20, 2026 - STAR PARTIES: AT EAGLE EYE OBSERVATORY NIGHT SESSIONS: At CANYON OF THE EAGLES NATURE PARK & RESORT: Fri, 8–10:30p. FMI: 512-473-3366

Apr 25, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At INKS LAKE STATE PARK: Sat, 8–11p. Join the Austin Astronomical Society to observe spring planets, galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters through public telescopes. Bring a red-light flashlight. Cost: Park entry fee. FMI: 512-793-2223

May 2, 2026 - DUSK TO DARK STAR PARTY: At SHIELD RANCH: Sat, 6:30–10p. Join dark-sky advocates and astronomers for telescope viewing, stargazing, and night-sky navigation. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Cost: $15 adults, $7 youth. FMI: 512-288-0388

June 13, 2026 - NEW MOON IN JUNE STAR PARTY: At JONES BROTHERS PARK: 8:30–10p. Host: Jonestown Night Sky Advocacy (see profile below), Web. View stars through large telescopes on the Lake Travis shoreline. Bring blankets, chairs, and your own telescope if desired. Annual event. Parking & admission: Free. FMI: info@jtownnightsky.com

Aug 8, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK: Sat, 8:30–11p. View summer constellations, planets, and deep-space objects through high-powered telescopes hosted by the Austin Astronomical Society. Bring a red-light flashlight. Cost: Park entry fee. FMI: 830-330-1819

Sep 19, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK: Sat, 7:30–10:30p. Explore the autumn night sky with Austin Astronomical Society volunteers. Bring binoculars and red-light flashlights. Reservations required. Cost: Park entry fee. FMI: 830-330-1819

Oct 10, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At JONES BROTHERS PARK: 5–10p. Host: Jonestown Night Sky Advocacy (see profile below). View stars through large telescopes on Lake Travis shoreline. Bring blankets, chairs, and your own telescope if desired. Annual event. Parking & admission: Free.

Oct 17, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At INKS LAKE STATE PARK: Sat, 7–10p. Observe planets, galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters through public telescopes with the Austin Astronomical Society. Bring a red-light flashlight. Cost: Park entry fee. FMI: 512-793-2223

Oct 24, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At GUADALUPE RIVER STATE PARK: Sat, 8–10p. Enjoy stargazing and planet viewing through high-powered telescopes under dark Texas skies. Bring lawn chairs and a red-light flashlight. Cost: Free with paid park entry. FMI: 830-438-2656

Oct 31, 2026 - HALLOWEEN STAR PARTY: At PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK: Sat, 7–10p. Explore the spooky night sky with the Austin Astronomical Society. Costumes welcome. Trick-or-treating, telescopes, stargazing talks, and constellation tours. Bring binoculars and a red-light flashlight. Cost: Park entry fee.

Nov 6, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At PFLUGERVILLE'S 1849 PARK: Public event. Fri: 6:30-9:30p. Host: Jonestown Night Sky Advocacy (see profile below). Open to public.

Nov 7, 2026 - NIGHT SKIES OVER THE LBJ RANCH: At LYNDON B. JOHNSON NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK: Sat, 6:30–10p. Free stargazing and telescope viewing led by park rangers and Hill Country Astronomers (see profile below). Reservations required. Attendance limited. Bring chairs, blankets, and red-light flashlights. FMI: 830-868-7128

Nov 12, 2026 - HORSESHOE BAY STARGAZING PARTY: Horseshoe Bay, at 1514 Golden Nugget. Map. Thu, 7p. Free family-friendly event celebrating Horseshoe Bay's International Dark Sky Community designation. Web. Evening stargazing event with telescope viewing and observation of celestial objects. View the night sky through telescopes provided by the Hill Country Astronomers. No equipment or astronomy experience needed. Bring folding chairs. Parking & admission: Check with organizer.

Nov 14, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK: Sat, 5:30–8:30p. Observe celestial objects through telescopes hosted by the Austin Astronomical Society (see profile below). Bring a red-light flashlight. Reservations required. Cost: Park entry fee. FMI: 830-330-1819

Nov 21, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA: Sat, 6–8:30p. Enjoy dark-sky viewing hosted by park rangers and the Austin Astronomical Society (see profile below). See planets, nebulae, and constellations. Bring a red-light flashlight. Cost: Free with park day pass. FMI: 830-685-3636

Dec 5, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At BLANCO STATE PARK: Sat, 7–9p. Learn to navigate the night sky and view stars through telescopes hosted by the Hill Country Astronomers. Bring water and a red-light flashlight. Cost: Free with paid park entry. FMI: 830-833-4334

Dec 12, 2026 - STAR PARTY: At INKS LAKE STATE PARK: Sat, 5:30–8:30p. View deep-sky objects and planets through high-powered telescopes with the Austin Astronomical Society. Bring a red-light flashlight. Cost: Park entry fee. FMI: 512-793-2223


HILL COUNTRY STAR PARTY VENUE DIRECTORY
BY HOST OR VENUE NAME





Texas Parks & Wildlife Dept In this Portal website, we have focus topic pages on Hill Country parks where you can find more detailed information on most of these parks (particularly state parks), including directions, contacts, rich descriptions, and some images. The easiest access method is to connect to the link for the type of park you are seeking. The park types and associated links are shown at Park Index. Most star events are held at Texas State Parks & SNA's

BAD WOLF RANCH: Austin. An Austin Astronomical Society (AAS) Dark Sky Observing Site, members only. (See AAS profile below). Map. Web. Venue profile: Private property and use by AAS. FMI: info@austinastro.org

BLANCO STATE PARK: 830-833-4334; 101 Park Rd 23, Blanco, TX 78606. Map. Web. Venue profile: State park, river access, camping, stargazing.

DEVILS RIVER STATE NATURAL AREA: Web. A Remote West Texas dark-sky destination recognized for extremely low light pollution and outstanding celestial viewing. Specialty: Remote Dark-Sky Observing Location. Venue profile: State park, river access, camping, stargazing.
Ranch Park
DRIPPING SPRINGS RANCH PARK: 512-858-4725; 512-894-2390; 29339 RR-12, Dripping Springs, TX 78620. Map. Web. Venue profile: events, Texas Night Sky Festival, and Seasonal Star Parties. For optimal night sky viewing, stargazing is on weekends near the new moon each month. When: Bi-Annually. Session Time: Fri: 8-9p. All ages welcome (children must be accompanied by an adult). Gather at the "Lower Field". No registration necessary! Parking & Entry: Free. Best to arrive at least 5-10 minutes before the start of the session so you can get settled before the program begins. Venue profile: Event center, astronomy programs, stargazing.

EAGLE EYE OBSERVATORY AT CANYON OF THE EAGLES NATURE PARK & RESORT: 512-473-3366; 16942 RR-2341, Burnet, TX 78611. Map. Web. Facebook. Located on Lake Buchanan in NE sector. Daily nighttime astronomy sessions available by reservation. Peer through high-powered reflectors like the 14-inch Celestron to view deep-space objects including the Orion Nebula, Saturn, and Jupiter. Includes expert guidance from staff astronomers Jim Sheets and Phil Ostroff. Discovery pads available for personal telescope setup. New astrophotography classes available. Cost: $25/adult, $15 for ages 5–12, free for 4 and younger. Parking included. Venue profile: Nature resort, observatory, astronomy programs, stargazing.

ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA: 830-685-3636; 16710 RR-965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624. Map. Web. International Dark Sky Park offering exceptional naked-eye and telescope viewing opportunities. Specialty: Dark-Sky Park & Stargazing Destination. Venue profile: State Natural Area (SNA), hiking, dark sky viewing, stargazing.

FORT MCKAVETT STATE HISTORIC SITE: 325-396-2358; Menard, at Fort McKavett. Web. Map. Web. The Texas Historical Commission and Fort McKavett State Historic site host the star gazing events. This historic fort is located on far west side of the Texas Hill Country. Star gazing events begin at dusk and the fort's gates will remain open until 10:30p. Come out early and stay late to enjoy an entertaining day and evening. Venue profile: Texas heritage site (see Forts), tourism, stargazing.

GUADALUPE RIVER STATE PARK: 830-438-2656; 3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070. Map. Web. Park entry fee: $6/adult, ages 12 and under: free. Parking: included. Venue profile: State park, river recreation, stargazing.

HILL COUNTRY STATE NATURAL AREA: 830-796-4413; 10600 Bandera Creek Rd, Bandera, TX 78003. Map. Web. Venue profile: State natural area (SNA), horseback riding, camping, stargazing.

HORSESHOE BAY NATURE PARK: 830-598-8741; 1514 Golden Nugget Blvd, Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657. Map. Sponsor/Venue Web. Typical Sessions: 7-9p. Presented by Hill Country Astronomers, who will provide telescopes to view. Attendees should bring chairs, friends, and their own binoculars or telescopes. Free star party. Venue profile: City nature park, stargazing.

INKS LAKE STATE PARK: 512-793-2223; 3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, TX 78611. Map. Web. Event location is across from Central Park. Bring red-bulb flashlight. Park entry fee: $6/adult, ages 12 and under: free. Parking: included. Venue profile: State park, camping, swimming, boating, stargazing.

JONES BROTHERS PARK: 10698 Lakeside Dr, Jonestown, TX 78645. Map. Jonestown Night Sky Advocacy: Web. View stars through large telescopes on the Lake Travis shoreline. Bring blankets, chairs, and your own telescope if desired. Parking & admission: Free. FMI: info@jtownnightsky.com. Venue profile: City park and event area. Picnic area, stargazing. ,

LADY BIRD JOHNSON MUNICIPAL PARK: 830-997-4202; 432 Lady Bird Dr, Fredericksburg, TX 78624. Map. Parking: included. Venue profile: Municipal park, astronomy events, stargazing.

LYNDON B. JOHNSON NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK: 830-868-7128; RR-1 off US-290, Stonewall, TX 78671. Map. Web. Parking: included. Venue profile: National historical park, LBJ Ranch, astronomy programs.

NEW BRAUNFELS CIVIC CENTER: 830-221-4010; 375 S Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130. Map. Web. Venue profile: City convention center, markets, festivals, stargazing.

OLD TUNNEL STATE PARK: Fredericksburg area. Web Dark-sky observing site promoted and utilized by Hill Country Astronomers for astronomy activities. Park entry fee: $6/adult, ages 12 and under: free. Parking: included. Specialty: Bats, stargazing.

PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK: 830-330-1819; 2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636. Map. Web. On arrival in park, proceed to the park's Star Theater located behind the bird blind. Park entry fee: $6/adult, ages 12 and under: free. Parking: included. Venue profile: State park, hiking, camping, stargazing.

PFLUGERVILLE'S 1849 PARK: 1849 Park, 16430 Cameron Rd, Pflugerville, TX 78660. a href="https://maps.google.com/?q=16430+Cameron+Rd,+Pflugerville,+TX+78660" target="_blank">Map. Festivities will take place at the football field by the restroom/picnic table pavilion in the NW corner of the park by parking lot B. (See map on web by clicking "More Details"). Registration is not required. There is no charge for entry or the star party itself. Outside food and drinks are allowed. No glass containers. Public consumption of alcoholic beverages is not allowed in the park. A flashlight with a red bulb is good to bring, but we have red cellophane we can use to cover a white light. Please don’t bring a dog, unless it is a service animal; we prefer not to have dogs around the telescopes in the dark. Smoking is not permitted in the area of the telescopes because the smoke can damage optical equipment. If the weather on a scheduled star party day seems questionable for viewing, you can check this website or call the City of Pflugerville Parks and Recreation department.

SHIELD RANCH: 512-288-0388; 10417 Crumley Ranch Rd, Fitzhugh, TX 78738. Map. Web. Located mid-way between Bee Cave and Dripping Springs. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Cost: $15/adult, $7/youth. Parking included. Venue profile: Nature preserve, environmental education, camping, stargazing.

SOUTH LLANO RIVER STATE PARK: Junction, TX. Web. International Dark Sky Park featuring astronomy programs and excellent Milky Way viewing conditions. Specialty: Dark-Sky Park & Astronomy Programs. Park entry fee: $6/adult, ages 12 and under: free. Parking: included. Venue profile: state park, camping, stargazing.


STAR GAZING RESOURCES - IN OR NEAR HILL COUNTRY




AUSTIN ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY (AAS): Austin, downtown, 3301 E 5th Street. Map. Web. Non-profit educational organization dedicated to the promotion and encouragement of the science of astronomy, hosting regular meetings, star parties, and public outreach events across Central Texas. Members Only Star Parties: held at their own dark sky site. Watch for emails with information. Dark Sky Site: available for use upon request. AAS members may visit the site and use the AAS dome and telescope, or bring their own equipment. Sidereal Times Newsletter: Our award winning newsletter available to everyone free of charge on the Sidereal Times page. AAS General Assembly meetings held on the 2nd Fri of every month at 7:30p. A wide range of available speakers including researchers, authors, our own practical astronomers, astronauts, and the occasional Nobel prize winner. Everyone is welcome to attend these special events. AAS members can connect via Zoom and on our YouTube channel. Outreach programs. Specialty: Central Texas Astronomy Education & Public Star Parties. FMI: 830-330-1819, memberservices@austinastro.org , info@austinastro.org , contactaas@austinastro.org

DARK SKY COMMUNITY & CONFERENCE: Web. While the "dark sky" movement is not specifically about both astronomy and star gazing, there is a very close tie between the two as dark skies lessen your ability to stargaze. Join DarkSky’s virtual Under One Sky conference, November 6–7! Hear from experts, discover inspiring success stories, and explore the biggest challenges facing our night. See: Web

HILL COUNTRY ASTRONOMERS (HCA): Fredericksburg. Web. POB 651, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 Meetings: at Fellowship Hall, Zion Lutheran Church, 415 W Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624. Map. Club Web. Mon: 6:30p. Monthly meeting open to anyone interested in astronomy, featuring a special focus on lunar observation and moon gazing, seasonal constellation programs, and an astronomy presentation followed by a short business discussion. Beginners and guests are welcome; club membership is not required. FMI: hillcountryastronomers@gmail.com, Images@HillCountryAstronomers.com
Note: Club Star Parties (for members only) are generally held once a month - usually near the time of the new moon if the clear sky forecast is good, and the time varies with the season. The star parties are held near Stonewall, TX. Sign in to the Members Only section of their website for the upcoming schedule of Star Parties. Members also participate in larger parties (e.g., Texas Star Party, Eldorado Star Party) and provide equipment and support for outreach parties (e.g., Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, LBJ State Park and Historic Site, LBJ National Historical Park, Friends of the Night Sky organizations and local schools).

JONESTOWN NIGHT SKY ADVOCACY: 17509 Lighthouse Ln, Jonestown, TX 78645. Map. Web, View stars through large telescopes on the Lake Travis shoreline. Bring blankets, chairs, and your own telescope if desired. Annual event. Parking & admission: Free. FMI: info@jtownnightsky.com

LOFTIS OBSERVATORY at LOFTIS FAMILY SCIENCE CENTER, SCHREINER UNIVERSITY: 2100 Memorial Blvd, Kerrville, TX 78028. Map. Observatory Web. Department Web. Observatory features a domed observatory housing and a 16-inch telescope. Frequently hosts free public star parties and stargazing events allowing visitors to view planets, nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies in the Texas Hill Country sky. Events are weather permitting. Entrance gate is along East Main Street across from the athletic fields. FMI: 830-792-7249, kdarvidsson@schreiner.edu

SAN ANTONIO ASTRONOMICAL ASSOCIATION (SAAA): Web. One of the largest astronomy organizations serving the Hill Country region. Conducts regular public outreach events, observing sessions, lectures, and star parties at locations including Guadalupe River State Park and other regional venues. Participates in NASA's Night Sky Network.


RESOURCES IN TEXAS, BUT OUTSIDE OF HILL COUNTRY




FORT WORTH ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY: Web. Facebook. Non-profit astronomy organization providing public star parties, observing sessions, educational programs, and telescope assistance for members and guests. Specialty: Public Astronomy Outreach & Observing

HOUSTON ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY: Web. Astronomy club offering observing events, educational programs, outreach activities, member observing sites, and public telescope viewing sessions. Specialty: Astronomy Education & Observing Programs

MCDONALD OBSERVATORY STAR PARTIES: Web. Public star parties, telescope viewing, astronomy programs, visitor center exhibits, and educational presentations at McDonald Observatory near Fort Davis, TX. Specialty: Professional Observatory Public Programs & Night Sky Viewing

TEXAS ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY OF DALLAS: Web. One of Texas' largest astronomy clubs, offering educational programs, observing opportunities, telescope workshops, public outreach, and member observing events. Specialty: North Texas Astronomy Club & Education


RESOURCES IN US, BUT OUTSIDE OF TEXAS




ASTRONOMICAL LEAGUE: Web. The nation's leading amateur astronomy organization. It sponsors dozens of formal observing programs, provides certificates and pins for completed observations, publishes educational materials, and connects members to astronomy clubs throughout the US. Typical beginner programs include: Messier Objects, Binocular Observing, Lunar Observing, Double Stars, Planetary Observing, Constellation Hunter. Many local clubs include League membership as part of club dues.

ASTRONOMERS WITHOUT BORDERS: Web. International astronomy outreach organization promoting astronomy education, global collaboration, public observing events, and sharing the night sky across cultures. Specialty: Global Astronomy Outreach & Education

ASTRONOMICAL LEAGUE: Web. National federation of astronomy clubs offering observing programs, awards, certificates, manuals, and structured learning pathways. Specialty: Observing Programs & Amateur Astronomy Advancement

ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE: Web. Astronomy news, observing articles, equipment information, astrophotography features, and star party coverage. Specialty: Astronomy News & Learning Resources

CLEAR DARK SKY: Web. Astronomy-focused forecasts showing cloud cover, transparency, darkness, and seeing conditions for observing sites. Specialty: Astronomy Weather Forecasting. This astronomy-specific forecast service predicts: Cloud cover, Sky transparency, Atmospheric stability ("seeing"), Darkness conditions Many experienced observers check it before every observing session.

CLOUDY NIGHTS: Web. Online astronomy community featuring equipment discussions, telescope reviews, observing reports, astrophotography forums, and expert advice. Specialty: Astronomy Discussion Forum & Equipment Reviews

HEAVENS-ABOVE: Web. Tracks satellites, International Space Station passes, comets, and other transient sky events. Specialty: Satellite & Space Object Tracking

INTERNATIONAL DARK-SKY ASSOCIATION: Web. Global organization dedicated to preserving dark skies through education, advocacy, responsible outdoor lighting practices, and dark-sky place certification programs. Specialty: Dark-Sky Preservation & Light Pollution Reduction

NASA NIGHT SKY NETWORK: Web. Nationwide network of amateur astronomy clubs, public telescope events, outreach programs, and astronomy education resources. Specialty: Astronomy Clubs & Star Party Directory

NIGHT SKY NETWORK EVENTS: Web. National calendar of public star parties, astronomy club meetings, observatory events, and telescope viewing sessions. Specialty: Star Party & Astronomy Event Calendar

OBSERVING PROGRAMS: Available through the Astronomical League (see above). Programs encourage systematic observation of the Moon, planets, double stars, galaxies, nebulae, comets, constellations, and binocular objects. Completion may qualify participants for certificates and recognition awards. Specialty: Guided Astronomy Skill Development

OKIE-TEX STAR PARTY: Web. Annual astronomy gathering hosted by the Oklahoma City Astronomy Club at Camp Billy Joe near Kenton, OK. Features exceptionally dark Southwest skies, observing programs, educational sessions, vendors, beginner instruction, and astrophotography activities. Specialty: Major Regional Star Party & Dark-Sky Observing Event

SKY & TELESCOPE: Web. Astronomy news, observing guides, sky charts, telescope reviews, celestial event coverage, and beginner-to-advanced learning resources. Specialty: Amateur Astronomy Education & Observing Resources

STELLARIUM WEB: Web. Interactive online planetarium allowing users to explore the night sky from any location and date. Specialty: Sky Mapping & Observation Planning

TEXAS STAR PARTY: Web. Major Texas astronomy gathering held at Fort Davis featuring dark-sky observing, educational presentations, and amateur astronomy community activities. Specialty: Annual Star Party Event. One of North America's premier amateur astronomy events, held annually at Prude Ranch near Fort Davis, Texas. Features world-class dark skies, observing fields, lectures, vendors, workshops, and hundreds of amateur astronomers.








Back To >> TOP OF PAGE & MAIN INDEX or BEGINNING OF DIRECTORY LISTINGS THIS PAGE




Site designed, maintained & Copyright © by Cofran & Associates, Inc.All rights reserved
See Terms of Use before using this website.Cofran.comGeorgeCofran@Gmail.com281-300-7177


Great shopping bargains at the Portal Store!

Click to see very cost-effective advertising opportunities on the Portal
It's EASY to advertise on the Portal ~ We'll help you.

Come share a piece of our world....
William Chris Vineyards

Family-owned winery
& vineyard operation
at a century-old
farm house,
breathtaking views
of Hill Country,
& handcrafted
Texas wines

830 998-7654
10352 US 290 W
Hye, Texas

williamchriswines.com


Most wineries here have tasting rooms to try their wines.
Affordable Pre-paid Emergency Air Transport Service
Air Evac Lifeteam

Click image for details
Protection starts at $65/yr
Go Texan
Texas Dept of Agriculture


A perfect day in . .
the Texas Hill Country!


Breathtaking views
Relaxing deck
Comfortable lounge chairs
Relax with . .
a glass of our wine
Winery tours
Open every day
No appointment needed


Pedernales Cellars . . a place to relax and taste wine
Join us on our deck and enjoy family, friends or that special person . . with our great wines.
Stonewall, Texas
830-644-2037
www.PedernalesCellars.com


A great opportunity for creativity, fun & contribution. Click to send email & tell us about yourself


Protect Your Computer Files With
Carbonite
On-Line storage
of your data.

Easy!

Just click
to get started.




Click to see very cost-effective advertising opportunities on the Portal