While the legendary Houston Astrodome, the “eighth wonder of the world” opened in 1965, is for many reasons, the most popular landmark associated with the “astrodome” moniker – Houstonians ought to know that it’s not the only astrodome in town.
While the future has yet to be determined on the now-abandoned facility, the George Observatory, or Houston’s other astro dome, is alive and well with its path hitched to the stars.
The George Observatory is tucked away two miles inside the Brazos Bend State Park – a 45-minute drive from Downtown, Houston. The state-of-the-art satellite facility of Houston Museum of Natural Science opened originally in 1989 – just a few short years after Brazos Bend State Park opened to the public in 1984. In 2019, the George Observatory closed to undergo renovations.
Among renovations, the interior of the observatory underwent a sweeping transformation, with the main exhibit hall, classroom, and Expedition Center all revamped to feature brand-new displays.
Technological upgrades included the addition of live stargazing video streams and a dedicated solar camera. Outside, the three telescope domes were outfitted with fresh roofing and a new coat of paint, while the observation deck received upgraded safety railings. The venue reopened in 2021.
Among others, the three-domed structure houses three research-grade telescopes including the 10-ton, 36″ Gueymard Research Telescope – one of the largest telescopes in the entire country.
Presently, the George Observatory is only open to the public on Saturday nights from 9 pm to 11 pm. Here, visitors can peer through the venue’s telescopes for a closer look of the galaxies far, far away. Astronomers will also be on hand to guide guests through cosmos. Be sure to peruse its Exhibit Hall, which features a variety of interactive experiences, displays, and live feeds.
The observatory is located at 21901 FM 762 Rd, Needville, TX 77461. Entrance to the observatory is free, but stargazing tickets are priced at $13.