McDonald Observatory will host a meeting for AHO member organization staff and volunteers who work in public programs to share ideas, resources, and best practices. Space is limited. Registration information to come.

Contact: Katie Kizziar, Assistant Director for Education and Outreach, McDonald Observatory, ktk [at] austin.utexas.edu.

Flights into Midland (MAF) or El Paso (ELP) airports + 3-hour drive to the Observatory.

3 nights lodging and meals at the Astronomers Lodge: $150 per night for single occupancy + taxes; $185 per night for double occupancy + taxes. (current prices as of January 2025).

We will have 10 single/double occupancy rooms available at the Astronomers Lodge. Rooms have two twin or one king sized bed and private bathrooms. Other nearby lodging options: Davis Mountains State Park, Prude Ranch (good for RVs), or Stone Village Tourist Camp.

Possible Discussion or Training Topics

• Program updates from members
• Marketing to new audiences
• Measuring program impacts
• Grants, fundraising, and business models
• Capturing historic stories
• Show & tell of favorite resources or activities
• Training: dealing with tough customers, communicating science

Schedule

• Fort Davis National Historic Site
• Big Bend National Park
• Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center
• Museum of the Big Bend in Alpine, TX
• Marfa, TX - Contemporary and modern art
• Balmorhea State Park