We have concluded our public star parties for the remainder of this year, but no worries! Our next public start party will take place on January 18th, 2025. We hope to see you then!

Come join us at the Rafes Urban Astronomy Center on the first and third Saturday of every month for our Star Party. At Star Parties, you can learn about the night sky from our knowledgeable staff and students and enjoy an opportunity to see objects in space through our telescopes!

PRICING:

Admission to our bi-monthly star parties is $5 per person, CASH-ONLY. Children 4 and younger get in free.

We also offer a Saturday Sky Theater / Star Party (Observatory) Combo Deal*:

- Students/UNT Employees/Seniors/Kids: $9

- Adults: $12

*The Combo Deal will get you admission into any of the Sky Theater shows that day, then admission into the Star Party later that night. Combo tickets can only be purchased upon arrival to the Sky Theater show at the box office. We recommend attending the Planets and Beyond Live Show in addition to the Star Party for inviduals who want to have a compact night of fun. Combo tickets can also be purchased at the General Audience show at 2:00pm or the Planets & Beyond Live show at 6:30pm on the day of the event as well.

* Credit/Debit Cards NOT accepted

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Star Parties are held on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every Month. The start time varies based on sundown so we update the top of this page with the start time. Also, make sure to check back at 2:00pm the day of the Star Party to assure it hasn't been canceled due to weather.

Give us a call at (940) 369-8213 if not updated.

Please be aware...

There is a field for vehicles to park in at the RUAC. You may want to choose closed-toed footwear as you will be walking in grass to get to the Observatory.

Winter months tend to get very chilly, so you may want to bring your own hot beverages!

During the summer months you might consider bringing your own bug repellant and cool beverages. Lawn chairs are welcome, but not necessary as we have seating options.

DIRECTIONS:

Note: Due to construction, these are the ONLY routes to the Rafes Urban Astronomy Center. This change may not be reflected in all GPS devices.

The Rafes Urban Astronomy Center is located at 2350 Tom Cole Road, in Denton, TX.

From I35W exit FM 2449 and turn northwest and continue 2.9 miles. Turn right on to C.Wolfe Rd and travel 1.6 miles. Turn right on to Tom Cole Rd and continue 1.2 miles. The Rafes Urban Astronomy Center will be on the left.

Ruacmap