The Mission:
Our goal at Marathon Sky Park is to create a cohesive environment where astronomy enthusiasts of all disciplines and experience levels can gather in a collaborative and creative atmosphere in an effort to educate, share, improve, expand, and facilitate knowledge and expertise in all available aspects of astronomy and related interests. Sunsets, stargazing, and storm chasing - we've got the sky for you...
What makes Marathon's skies so special?
Marathon is a Scale 1 on the Bortle Light Pollution Scale. What does that mean? It's dark! As a matter of fact, as dark as it gets without going to space!
Bortle Scale 1 Properties:
About Marathon Skypark
The Marathon Sky Park is a unique concept/development designed to enhance the experience of our visiting astronomy enthusiasts. Like the golden rule of real estate suggests: Location, Location, Location!
About that location...
Marathon, Texas is located in a remote section of West Texas known as the Big Bend Region, in Brewster County which fortuitously is the largest county in the country with the lowest population density. Brewster county is now part of a 3-county Dark Sky Reserve! It is situated in what is known as, the Great Marathon Basin, and surrounded by mountains which protect it from light intrusion from neighboring towns.
Perfect for astrophotography.
An elevation of approximately 4100' in a dry, high desert environment, in addition, the Marathon Sky Park is located a half mile west of the community of Marathon, Texas, on approximately 3 acres on the north side of the Marathon Motel & RV Park property. No wonder Marathon and the Marathon Sky Park boasts some of the darkest skies in the lower 48 contiguous United States!
Stargaze in comfort.
Amenities include wifi, 3 level concrete pads featuring 110 power, and a shade cloth barrier to prevent any stray light intrusion. Future improvements include additional pads, warm room, and if long term or permanent arrangement is desired, a roll-off roof observatory with pier pads to accommodate hands-on or robotic needs. Pad fees: Free with room or RV rentals or $15.00/night for pad use only. No charge to set up in undeveloped areas of the property or RV Park.
Star Parties
Conducted nightly, weather permitting through our 20" and 24" Dobsonian Reflector telescopes. Star parties last approximately two hours and are fun for the entire family!