Stars in West Texas: History, Mystery, Art, and Astronomy

Rating: Read participant reviews Photos | Videos For information about this program please call (800) 454-5768, or enter your email address in the field below and we will contact you. - Return to previous page - Browse for programs by region - Try an advanced search If you are currently enrolled in this program, you can view the program details by logging in to your account. Discover hidden treasures in Fort Davis, Alpine and Marfa, located on a Chihuahuan Desert Plateau in the Davis Mountains of West Texas. In the artistic community of Marfa, study the Donald Judd collection, works by John Chamberlain, Dan Flavin, and other art exhibits and artists as you browse galleries and the Chinati Foundation, center of minimalist and contemporary art. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes exploration of movies filmed in the area, including "Giant," starring James Dean, Elizabeth Taylor, and Rock Hudson. Turn your eyes to the real stars with evening telescope viewing and star charting onsite. Participate in a behind-the-scenes tour of University of Texas’ McDonald Observatory, one of the top astronomy research facilities in the country. Watch for the mysterious Marfa Lights and hear experts’ theories about their elusive origins. Explore the cultural and ranching heritage at the Fort Davis National Historic Site and the newly renovated, state-of-the-art Museum of the Big Bend. Program in association with Davis Mountain Education Center. Itinerary Arrival Fort Davis, 2 nights; transfer to Marfa, 2 nights; transfer to Fort Davis, 1 night;departure.