Every Wednesday night while UT is in session the astronomy department sponsors free public star parties on the top roof of Physics, Math, and Astronomy Building (PMA), which is located at the southeast corner of Dean Keeton (formerly 26th street) and Speedway. Once you reach PMA, take the elevators to the 17th floor and then follow the signs to the stairs up to the telescope. Click here for map to PMA and nearby parking garages. (Garage rate information is available here.) Please review the rules for accessing the PMA roof and telescope dome before your visit.

All ages are welcome, but we ask that younger children be under adult supervision at all times. Viewing times change throughout the year so please check this page for current times before planning your visit. Please call 512-232-4265 for weather cancellation information. This line is updated approximately 30-45 minutes before the scheduled start time. (If you get an old message from an earlier date, that means the line has not been updated for the current date yet.)

If you are interested in bringing a small group of 15 or fewer, you may come to a public viewing night without prior arrangements or reservations. If you plan on bringing a group of more than 15, please notify Lara Eakins at least two weeks in advance to avoid having too many groups show up on the same evening. Please note: we do not do private events for groups or individuals.

Public viewing nights occur throughout the year while the unversity is in session. Typically spring semester viewing runs from late January to early May, summer sessions viewing runs from early-to-mid June to mid-August, and fall semster viewing runs from early September to early December. The other telescope on campus is located at Painter Hall and is open on Fridays and Saturdays.

Public Viewing Frequently Asked Questions