STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University’s College of Science and Mathematics will host its free fall Star Party at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 21, at the Hunewell Ranch observatory.

Visitors can gaze at stars and deep space objects through Tarleton’s 32-inch reflecting research telescope. Several smaller telescopes outside the observatory will provide views of spectacular night sky objects such as Jupiter, Saturn, neighboring galaxies and other celestial wonders.

Amateur astronomers are encouraged to bring their own ’scopes, set up on special concrete slabs and share their view with others. Tarleton faculty will offer tours inside the observatory.

Arrivals at the ranch gate will be directed where to park. Ideal viewing occurs in conditions as dark as possible, so guests are asked to turn off their headlights as they approach the parking area.

Tarleton students can catch shuttles from the Stephenville campus to and from the party. To reserve a ticket, stop by the Dean’s Office in the College of Science and Mathematics (Lamar Johanson Science Building 119) or call 254-968-9781.  

For more information, including weather issues, call 254-968-0523. Directions to Hunewell Ranch and other information about Tarleton’s Program for Astronomy Education and Research are at http://www.tarleton.edu/observatory.

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.