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FAQ

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  • General
  • Admission

General

Can I also bring my own telescope and set it up?
You could, but it is not recommended. There is limited space on the Observation Deck. You would also have to set up, view, and pack up your telescope within the one hour of your Stargazing timeslot. Other visitors may also assume that you are part of the Observatory and want to use your telescopes. For the best Saturday Stargazing experience, we recommend taking advantage of the programming offered by our Astronomy experts (we generally have 2 domes open, sometimes all 3, 3-4 deck scopes, plus someone doing laser constellation tours). You are welcome to set up your telescope on the hill after your timeslot is over, or elsewhere in the park.
What items are prohibited at the George Observatory?
Light up shoes, white light flashlights, phone flashlights, flash photography, and open-toed shoes are all prohibited at the George Observatory.   Only bottled water is allowed on the Observation Deck, no other food or drink is permitted.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The George Observatory staff checks for weather on Friday and Saturday morning, prior to Saturday Stargazing. If it’s going to rain, we CANCEL. We make every effort to cancel no later than Saturday morning. We email and call every ticket holder on the contact info they used to book to give them instructions for rescheduling. If it’s cloudy, we GO AHEAD. We have fabulous images and presentations of objects captured at the George, using the equipment there. When it’s cloudy, we set up all the monitors and show those images. We give tours of the dome, explain the telescopes, and do other fun things!
Can I get a refund if the weather is bad?
George Observatory tickets are non-refundable unless we cancel due to RAIN. In the event of cancellation, funds are credited to your HMNS museum account. To use funds for a rescheduled date or to request a refund to your card, follow the instructions emailed in the cancellation alert. We do not cancel for overcast skies, as we still deliver a program.
I am no longer able to attend Saturday Stargazing and wish to cancel my tickets. Can I get a refund?
George Observatory tickets are non-refundable, but can be rescheduled. To reschedule your tickets, please call our Advance Sales line at 713-639-4629 no later than 5:00 p.m. the day prior (Friday). Select Option 1 for Tickets, then select Option 2 to speak with a representative. After the event date, tickets are non-changeable.

Admission

How much are tickets to the George Observatory?
Saturday Stargazing tickets are $13 for everyone ages 3 and up. The park entrance fee for Brazos Bend State Park must be purchased separately on the park’s website.
What benefits does my membership get me at the George Observatory?
Members receive discounts for Saturday Stargazing twice a year for the entire month, and discounted ticket prices for special events such as VIP Starry Night, Moonlight Madness and the Sun & Moon Festival.
Can I buy my tickets there? Do you guys accept cash?
Everything requires advance ticket purchase – we do not sell tickets or accept cash onsite. You can purchase tickets online or by calling 713-639-4629.
Does Saturday Stargazing happen year-round?
Yes! We offer either 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. timeslots roughly mid-March to early Nov OR 7:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m., and 9:00 p.m. roughly early Nov to mid-March (changes with daylight savings time and the sunset). Tickets are typically available beginning 2 months in advance
Do I need a ticket to attend Saturday Stargazing tickets and what is included?
Yes, in order to access any of our programming (inside exhibits, scopes, domes, observation deck), advance ticket purchase is required. During a regular stargazing visit, patrons will get programming in the telescope domes and on the observation deck. They can also visit the indoor exhibit area where you might find a short movie or docent presentation in the classroom, or a hands-on craft or activity. We now offer a combination of viewing through telescope eyepieces, and camera-assisted viewing (cameras connected to the eyepiece, which allows for clearer images and deeper in space.) Volunteer and staff experts are always available to explain what you’re seeing.