I was looking for the perfect spot to capture this magnificent sunset. I think this random field worked out quite well. 🙂
Tag Archives: Texas
Before Sunset
More lovely views from McDonald Observatory as the sun begins to head behind the nearby peaks.
Hobby-Eberly Telescope
This Telescope lays claim to be the third largest in the world. The reflecting surface is composed of 91 hexagonal mirror segments, it has a total reflective surface of 11 meters in diameter, and it weighs 13 tons. It is most impressive to see up close and in person.
Mount Locke Summit Views
The summit of Mount Locke sits at an elevation of 6,791 feet. This spot was chosen for a few reasons – it was donated by a local rancher, the weather is nice year round, this area of the state has dark skies, and the elevation. The views from the base of the telescope are outstanding.
Harlan J. Smith Telescope
This Telescope is one of the first you will see on the scenic drive up Highway 118. Completed in 1968 with the help of NASA for a cost of $5 million, it was then the third largest in the world. One of the interesting projects it was involved in was using a laser to measure the distance to the moon by reflecting light off of mirrors left on the moon by Apollo Astronauts. The tour takes you up the mountain and provides a walk through of the telescope, and a display of its history and powers.
Frank N. Bash Visitors Center
Prepare yourself for tons of photos from McDonald Observatory. It all begins at the Visitor Center just off of Highway 118 and north of a beautiful drive through Davis Mountains State Park. If nothing else, this is a wonderful pit stop with awesome views and even a nice cafe to grab a bite to eat and a refreshing beverage. From here you can get all the information you need and sign up for a tour of the facilities.
15 untitled works in concrete
Another Art Installation from Donald Judd. Take a walk along the border of the property at The Chinati Foundation to admire these concrete shapes and the surrounding scenery. If you look closely in the next to the last photo, you can see the Marfa Water Tower and the dome of the Presidio County Courthouse. 🙂
100 untitled works in mill aluminum
The exhibit called “100 untitled works in mill aluminum” by Donald Judd can be discovered at The Chinati Foundation just outside of downtown Marfa. These aluminum pieces are housed in two former artillery sheds which are awesome in their own rights. As per the website, “Each of the 100 works has the same outer dimensions (41 x 51 x 72 inches), although the interior is unique in every piece. The Lippincott Company of Connecticut fabricated the works, which were installed over a four-year period from 1982 through 1986.” Unfortunately, they don’t allow photos inside the building, but I think the lighting and reflections from walking along the outside windows made for some nice shots.
Walking Around Marfa
Here are some scenes from my walk around Marfa.
Hotel Paisano
The Hotel Paisano is a historic gem right in the heart of Marfa. If you find yourself in this city, you must take a few minutes to walk through and admire the hotel and the history that finds its home here.
earthrobert 