One of West Texas’ most celebrated night-sky experiences is back for the heart of winter.
Star parties hosted at Marathon Motel & RV Park are running January 5 through January 22, taking advantage of some of the darkest and longest nights of the year. Weather permitting, visitors will have the opportunity to view planets, star clusters, nebulae, and deep-sky objects under skies largely untouched by light pollution.
The events are led by Bill, a longtime stargazing guide known to many in the Big Bend region for his approachable explanations and high-quality telescope setups. The winter season is particularly prized by astronomers because cooler air often delivers sharper visibility and earlier nightfall, allowing for extended viewing sessions.
Reservations are required, and organizers encourage guests to book in advance. Winter star parties in Marathon routinely draw visitors from across Texas and beyond, thanks to the area’s exceptionally dark skies and minimal light pollution.
Marathon sits along the edge of one of the darkest regions in the continental United States, attracting astronomers, photographers, and casual stargazers alike. Its proximity to Big Bend National Park and surrounding protected lands helps preserve skies that are increasingly rare elsewhere.
Reservations and additional details are available at darktexasskies.com/reservations.
For those new to West Texas stargazing, organizers recommend dressing warmly, using red-light flashlights when possible, and allowing time for eyes to fully adjust to the darkness. Even first-time visitors can expect a guided and memorable look at the night sky.
With clear weather, January’s star parties offer a chance to experience the universe the way it was meant to be seen — bright, expansive, and uninterrupted.
