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Gov. abbott announces launch of texas space commission in houston.

Moriah Ballard , Digital Producer/Reporter

Michael Horton , Digital Content Producer , Houston, TX

AUSTIN – Texas Governor Greg Abbott made a major announcement on the future of the space industry in Texas at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

Governor Abbott announced the establishment the Texas Space Commission. Along with this announcement, the Governor appointed the inaugural members of the commission’s Board of Directors and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium (TARSEC) Executive Committee.

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“Since its very inception, NASA’s Johnson Space Center has been home to manned spaceflight, propelling Texas as the national leader in the U.S. space program,” Abbott said. “It was at Rice University where President John F. Kennedy announced that the U.S. would put a man on the moon—not because it was easy, but because it was hard. Now, with the Texas Space Commission, our great state will have a group that is responsible for dreaming and achieving the next generation of human exploration in space.”

We have liftoff for the Texas Space Commission! @GovAbbott launched 🚀 the Texas Space Commission today, here at Johnson Space Center. Texas and state Legislature passed the Texas Space Commission to allow the State of Texas to take a more profound lead and increase… pic.twitter.com/bJQvxiaNL9 — NASA's Johnson Space Center (@NASA_Johnson) March 26, 2024

The Texas Space Commission was formed with the goal of strengthening the state’s influence in aerospace activity by promoting innovation in space research and exploration. The organization will be governed by its Board of Directors, which consists of nine members.

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Along with the announcement, Governor Abbott also toured the mission control and spoke with native Texan and NASA Astronaut Loral O’Hara via International Space Station feed.

The Governor was also joined by Speaker Dade Phelan, Representative Greg Bonnen, NASA’s Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche, and other state and space industry leaders.

In a post on X , Governor Abbott cemented his excitement about the program’s potential to further Houston’s influence on space travel.

“As we look to the future of space, one thing is clear: those who reach for the stars do so from the great state of Texas,” Abbott said in the post.

• MORE SPACE NEWS: SpaceX: NASA launches massive Starship rocket🚀

Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.

About the Authors:

Moriah ballard.

Moriah Ballard joined the KPRC 2 digital team in the fall of 2021. Prior to becoming a digital content producer in Southeast Texas and a Houstonian, Moriah was an award-winning radio host in her hometown of Lorain, Ohio, and previously worked as a producer/content creator in Cleveland. Her faith, family, and community are her top passions.

Michael Horton

Michael is a Kingwood native who loves shooting hoops, visiting local breweries and overreacting to Houston sports. He joined the KPRC family in the spring of 2024. He earned his B.A. from Texas A&M University in 2022 and his M.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2023.

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Discover Houston, the vibrant heart of Texas and renowned Space City, where exploration and cultural diversity collide. Explore the historic landmarks of NASA’s Johnson Space Center and delve into the wonders of space exploration at Space Center Houston. Indulge in the city’s eclectic culinary scene, from sizzling Tex-Mex delights to savory barbecue joints that reflect Houston’s rich cultural tapestry. Wander through the Museum District, home to world-class institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Whether you’re exploring picturesque parks or vibrant shopping districts, Houston offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. Plan your visit today and unlock the excitement of Space City – where every moment is a journey into the extraordinary.

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NASA Johnson Space Center and Space Center Houston: The Complete Guide

NASA is determined to get another man—and the first woman—on the moon by 2024, and Johnson Space Center (JSC) is one of the places that’s making it happen. For more than half a century, this sprawling, 100-building research and development complex just outside Houston has led the nation in scientific, engineering, medical, and technical advances that have shaped space-related travel—and is jettisoning it into the future. The only way the public can visit the complex—including the newly restored Mission Control Center, appearing exactly as it did on July 20, 1969, when the first lunar landing was monitored from here—is via Space Center Houston, the center’s official visitor center. Here you’ll enjoy a state-of-the-art museum , arrange a tram tour, visit the replica space shuttle Independence , plus purchase tickets for special experiences.

It all started when John F. Kennedy stated to Congress in 1961: “We choose to go to the moon.” The Manned Spacecraft Center opened in 1963 (it was renamed in 1973 to honor the 36th president), kicking off a four-decades-old-and-counting legacy of “design, development, and operation of human space flight.” 

JSC is where astronauts are selected and trained. This is where Gemini, Apollo, and Skylab were run, and where International Space Station missions are still being run. And this is where Orion—the new spacecraft to send humans to the moon and Mars—is operating. Today, the center remains one of NASA’s largest research and development facilities.

Space Center Houston opened in 1992 as the public arm of Johnson Space Center, a world-class, 250,000-square-foot space with exhibits, real-life space artifacts, and lunar models. Disney Imagineers helped design the concepts, ensuring an entertaining yet educational aspect. Since then, Space Center Houston has welcomed more than 20 million visitors.

What to See and Do

Space Center Houston is your starting point, where you’ll get your tickets, enjoy artifact-filled galleries, films, and live demonstrations, and hop on the popular NASA tram tour of the JSC complex. You could spend all day here—and should allocate at least six hours to do it justice. Your experience can be enhanced with add-ons, including a VIP NASA experience and lunch with an astronaut.

Your first stop at the museum should be Destiny Theater and the film, “Human Destiny,” which provides an overview of many of the artifacts that you’ll be seeing.

From here, seek out the Starship Gallery, where the chronology of U.S. space travel showcases the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo eras. Among the ships and vehicles on display are the Apollo 17 command module, the last Apollo mission to the moon; a lunar roving trainer, which astronauts used to practice driving a rover on the moon; and the lunar module LTA-8, which transported astronauts to and from the spacecraft to the lunar surface. Look for the Gene Kranz Apollo 17 Vest, worn by the iconic flight director known for wearing colorful vests handmade by his wife. Nearby in the Lunar Samples Vault, you can touch a real-life rock from the moon, one of only eight rocks in the world that are allowed to be touched.

Astronaut Gallery delves into the life of an astronaut, displaying different spacesuits and garments from the Gemini, Apollo, and Shuttle eras, including Sally Ride’s inflight coveralls, Michael Collins’ Apollo 11 garment, and John Young’s STS-1 suit. A portrait gallery on the wall memorializes every NASA astronaut who has flown in space.

Mars is on the forefront of NASA’s goals, and the Mission Mars Gallery explores the work that’s going on to make travel there happen. Here you climb into a replica Orion capsule, the vehicle that which will transport astronauts to the moon and beyond, and learn about the intricacies of travel to the red planet—and living there. You can also touch a real-life Mars rock.

In the International Space Station Gallery, showcasing the largest structure built in space (as long as a football field!), you’ll see real-life artifacts and interactive robotic exhibits that bring the International Space Station to life. You’ll also learn about the day-to-day life on this giant space laboratory. 

At Independence Plaza, a replica of the Independence Space Shuttle sits atop the original NASA 905 shuttle carrier aircraft. And not only is it amazing to look at, but you can climb inside the shuttle, where exhibits delve into the history and future of space exploration. Here you’ll get a feel for what it was like to live in this very functional, gadget-filled space. Hint: It’s not very glamorous, but it’s technically astounding. You can also explore inside the original airplane.

The pièce de résistance, however, is the popular, one-hour NASA Tram Tour , which takes you on a behind-the-scenes look at the JSC campus. This is the actual working space of scientists, engineers, technicians, and astronauts who are imagining and striving for the next space journeys. You have two choices of tours, depending on what you want to see.

• The Astronaut Training Facility Tour includes a visit to the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility in Building 9, where astronauts train and scientists and engineers work and invent; you’ll see ISS replicas, the Orion capsule, and other new NASA projects.
• The Mission Control Center Tour takes you to the newly restored Apollo Mission Control Center, from which the Gemini and Apollo missions were managed—including the first famous moon walk. 

On some weekends and holidays, another option is to visit the current Mission Control, where the International Space Station activities are monitored.

How to Visit 

Johnson Space Center and Space Center Houston are located about 30 minutes from downtown Houston . Space Center Houston, Johnson Space Center’s visitor center, is open daily except Christmas. For specific hours, visit the website . One-day passes are $29.95 for adults, $24.95 for children (ages 4 to 11), and $27.95 for seniors (65+). There’s also a $5 fee for parking.  

An audio option, narrated by astronauts, is available at the Information Desk for $36 for adults and $31 for children.

When you purchase your ticket, you will be given time slots for the NASA tram tour of the JSC and to visit Independence Plaza, both of which are included in your ticket price. These are your hard stops, when you must visit at your appointed times. In between those visits, stroll through the museum’s spacious galleries, enjoy films, see what lectures are going on, dine at Zero-G Diner, and take it all in.

Additional ticket options include the Level 9 VIP Tour, which provides behind-the-scenes access to the Johnson Space Center ($179.95; must be at least 14 to participate); and Lunch with an Astronaut ($69.95 for adults, $35.95 for children ages 4 to 11; includes admission to Space Center Houston), in which an astronaut shares a catered lunch while telling his or her stories and answering questions.

Tips for Visiting

• You can skip the line by buying tickets online , ahead of your visit. 
• If you become a member, which costs just a few dollars more than the ticket price, you’ll get priority boarding on the NASA Tram Tour .
• Most visitors come on weekends, holidays, and summer. If you want a more relaxed experience, visit off-season or arrive as early as possible during high season.
• Space Center Houston is part of CityPass Houston ($59 for adults, $49 for children), which includes admission to four other city attractions.
• Seasonal exhibits are often offered in the Main Plaza, in front Space Center Houston, and live shows take place on the outdoor Stellar Science Stage.

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Johnson Space Center and Space Center Houston

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U.S. News Insider Tip: Though not located near downtown Houston, this daytrip is worth the effort to rent a car, especially if you're staying in Houston for a few days. NASA fans should arrive early for the tram tour. – Catherine Parker, Contributor, Travel

"Houston, we've had a problem." Most Americans have heard of the infamous phrase uttered by the Apollo 13 crew when it encountered a spacecraft explosion mid-flight on its way to the moon (or the modified "Apollo 13" movie version, "Houston, we have a problem"). The astronauts were communicating with Mission Control at this NASA space center, about 25 miles southeast of downtown Houston.

Established in 1961, the Johnson Space Center is NASA's manned spacecraft center, the hub for the astronaut corps and the home to International Space Station Mission operations. The 1,700-acre complex has been an integral part of NASA operations since the Mercury program and still operates as one of the country's major space centers for personnel training, research and more. Travelers interested in learning a little more about NASA and the Johnson Space Center's history can check out the official NASA visitor center adjacent to the facility, Space Center Houston, one of the top things to do in Texas .

The sprawling 250,000-square-foot educational complex and space museum invites visitors to explore more than 400 space artifacts, including the world's largest collection of moon rocks. Visitors can explore Space Center Houston's interactive exhibits, as well as learn about the current human spaceflight program in "The Artemis Exhibit." Other attractions include the "Mission Mars" exhibit, which offers visitors the chance to touch a Mars rock. Other interactive elements include a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket booster; exhibits of spacesuits, Mission Control tours and the International Space Station Gallery. Visitors can also explore the interior of a replica space shuttle that's mounted on top of the original NASA 905 shuttle carrier aircraft. NASA enthusiasts will want to reserve a spot on the behind-the-scenes tram tour of the Johnson Space Center (included in admission, though tram space is limited).

Recent visitors raved about the most popular attraction, a narrated tram tour that explores some of the most interesting aspects of the space center and grounds. Several reviewers suggested reserving your tram ticket as soon as possible since spots fill up fast. Visitors say the facility is especially fun for families with older children; some reviewers reported restless toddlers and suggested waiting until your kids are old enough to understand the tours and informational films.

Located about 25 miles southeast of downtown Houston, Space Center Houston is generally open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., but check the website for specific seasonal hours. The center provides detailed itineraries so guests can get the most of their visit. Those visiting several museums and attractions can save money on admission by purchasing Houston's CityPASS, otherwise, tickets cost $29.95 for adults (12 and older), $27.95 for seniors and $24.95 for children ages 4 to 11; kids 3 and younger can enter for free. Ample parking is available on-site and costs $10. VIP tours and a "breakfast with an astronaut" experience are available for additional fees.

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#1 Houston Museum District

Houston's expansive Museum District is by far the city's greatest cultural asset. What's more, it's considered one of the top things to do in Texas . This district features 19 museums in four walkable zones, which include popular spots like the Houston Museum of Natural Science , the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, The Menil Collection and The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

Located about 4 miles south of downtown Houston, The Museum District stretches from the southern edge of Midtown and includes Hermann Park . Millions of people visit each year thanks to its diverse array of offerings and the fact that admission to 10 of the 19 museums available is free, year-round. Top museums to see include:

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Gov. Abbott launches Texas Space Commission in Houston

TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - Governor Greg Abbott today launched the Texas Space Commission and announced the inaugural members of the Texas Space Commission Board of Directors and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium (TARSEC) Executive Committee at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

In a press release, Abbott said the intention is for the Texas Space Commission to “cement Texas’ position as a national leader in the space industry and will secure its future in space exploration and development for the next generation of Texans.”

“Since its very inception, NASA’s Johnson Space Center has been home to manned spaceflight, propelling Texas as the national leader in the U.S. space program,” said Governor Abbott. “It was at Rice University where President John F. Kennedy announced that the U.S. would put a man on the moon—not because it was easy, but because it was hard. Now, with the Texas Space Commission, our great state will have a group that is responsible for dreaming and achieving the next generation of human exploration in space. Texas is the launchpad for Mars, innovating the technology that will colonize humanity’s first new planet. As we look into the future of space, one thing is clear: those who reach for the stars do so from the great state of Texas. I look forward to working with the Texas Space Commission, and I thank the Texas Legislature for partnering with industry and higher education institutions to secure the future of Texas’ robust space industry.”

Abbott was joined at the announcement by Speaker Dade Phelan, Representative Greg Bonnen, Representative Dennis Paul, NASA’s Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche, and other state and aerospace industry leaders. Prior to the announcement, the Governor toured NASA’s Mission Control Center and spoke with native Texan and NASA Astronaut Loral O’Hara via International Space Station feed.

“Texas boasts a proud legacy as our nation’s leading pioneer in space exploration and innovation,” said Speaker Phelan. “From NASA’s historic space operations at the Johnson Space Center to the thousands of aerospace companies that now call our state home, Texas has stood at the forefront of the expansion and evolution of the dynamic space industry. This past session, the Texas Legislature dedicated important funding and resources that will support Texas’ competitive edge in civil, commercial and military aerospace opportunities and further space exploration.”

The Texas Space Commission will work to strengthen Texas’ leadership in civil, commercial, and military aerospace activity by promoting innovation in the fields of space exploration and commercial aerospace opportunities, including the integration of space, aeronautics, and aviation industries into the Texas economy. The commission is governed by a nine-member board of directors, who will also administer the legislatively created Space Exploration and Aeronautics Research Fund to provide grants to eligible entities.

TARSEC will independently identify research opportunities within this state that strengthen Texas’ proven leadership in civil, commercial, and military aerospace activity; enhance this state’s position in aeronautics research and development, astronautics, space commercialization, and space flight infrastructure; and boost the integration of space, aeronautics, astronautics, and aviation industries into the Texas economy. TARSEC is governed by an executive committee and will be composed of representatives of each higher education institution in the state, who will also provide funding and research recommendations to the Texas Space Commission.

Copyright 2024 KLTV. All rights reserved.

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Space Center Houston

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How To Visit Starbase

Perhaps the most watched place in the space industry, Starbase, is the home of SpaceX’s Starship development and testing. Ten of thousands have made the trek to the southern tip of Texas with one goal: seeing SpaceX’s massive Starship rocket in person from just a few feet away. However, even more have spent hours and days watching live-streams and looking at photos of Starbase dreaming of what it may be like there.

The purpose of this article, in companion to Everyday Astronaut’s video on YouTube, is to provide the most comprehensive rundown of Starbase; the “dos and don’ts”, the things that must be done, and tips and tricks on how to navigate Starbase safely and effectively. Here you will find all the information, but for those who prefer to read. It can also act as a quick reference when you arrive at Starbase one day.

Where And What Is Starbase?

Starbase, located very near to Boca Chica, can be found in the southern most part of the state of Texas, United States. Texas, which borders Mexico, is also home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, but that is much further north.

Starbase is where SpaceX has done the development, testing, tweaking, and blowing up of their next rocket, Starship, the worlds largest and most powerful rocket. The town where Starbase is located was originally called Kennedy Shores. After a hurricane it was renamed Kopernik Shores, and most recently known as Boca Chica. Brownsville is the nearest city to Starbase at about 32 km (20 miles). Compared to the 187,000 people in Brownsville, only a few homes remain in Boca Chica on the barren wildlife refuge.

South Padre Island and Port Isabel are the closest inhabitable areas, but it would take nearly twice as long to get there than to Brownsville. This is because they are on barrier islands with limited access.

In 2014, SpaceX began purchasing land in the area for what was originally Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy testing. Despite some ground work, the next four years remained fairly uneventful. In 2018, a stainless steel water tower, or so people thought, emerged on the flat landscape. This water tower came to be Starhopper, a Raptor engine testing vehicle.

Since the first high altitude flights in late-2020 to mid-2021 which began with SN8, SpaceX has put an increased focus on booster and orbital ship development. Because of the increased cadence, more infrastructure such as bays and tents have seen the site grow exponentially.

The location and ease of access to the Starbase surrounding area has enabled close watch of nearly every move SpaceX makes as they develop Starship. While SpaceX does not want to block access to Boca Chica Beach, there’s no guarantee how long the largely open and public access will last in light of safety concerns related to launches and landings. It’s safe to say that waiting might not be the best option.

Tour Of Starbase

There are three main locations around Starbase where the activity happens; the production site, the launch site, and the structural test site (formerly Massey’s Gun Range). The production site is where both the ship and booster are manufactured and produced. The launch site, as the name implies, is where rockets are launched in addition to where engine tests and some other tests are performed. The structural test site is where other testing occurs, however there is not much to see at the structural test site from the available viewing areas.

Production Site

As of publication, the production site has three distinguishable buildings that rise high above the rest. The Midbay, High Bay, and Mega Bay (Wide Bay), act as rocket houses. The High and Mega Bays both have cranes on the top that allow large pieces of the rockets to be lifted into place and stacked on top of one another. A new building is currently being built called “Starfactory”, which will replace the three temporary production tents.

Near to the Mega Bay is a group of rockets, either used and retired, or never flown. This area is commonly referred to as the “Rocket Garden”. The vehicles in the Rocket Garden change very frequently as they are retired, scrapped, or held until testing.

Also located in that area is an Air Separator Unit (ASU) that can generate oxygen, nitrogen, and argon. This is also where some large shipments are received and where some heavy lifting equipment lies. In front of all of this is the gigantic and iconic “S T A R B A S E” sign.

These approximately 2.5 m (8 ft) tall illuminated letters are the first thing visible from the side of the road. It is a very popular space to stop and take photos, especially at night when the sign is illuminated. You can easily park on the rocks in front of the sign to hop out and take a photo.

In addition to these are the buildings that have been there since the beginning. Originally built by the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Stargate, is now owned by SpaceX and acts as their launch control. The building is an office building with space for desks and computers, meeting rooms, and other spaces where an old Merlin and Raptor engine can be found.

Further down the road toward the ocean is the solar farm. Next to the solar farm are two tracking dishes that were purchased from NASA. Behind that is Boca Chica Village, which mostly includes houses owned by SpaceX to house employees.

On the corner, before the long road to the launch pad, is a private restaurant. The outside seating area is covered in flaps from the Mk 1 Starship prototype. Only employees are able to eat here and at the adjacent food trucks. Across the street is a large building known as the payload processing facility, which is currently used for Starlink, but could be used for other payloads in the future.

Launch Site

After traveling down the nearly three kilometer (two miles) barren stretch of road, the launch site quickly fills the landscape. The launch site consists of three launch pads, two suborbital pads and one orbital pad.

Before arriving at the launch site, pulling off the road before it curves gives the unique view of Suborbital Pad A, on the right, and Suborbital Pad B, on the left. The black and white tanks are the Suborbital Tank Farm and house the propellants for both pads.

Traveling further down the road leads to an up close view of Starhopper, the first vehicle to take flight in south Texas. It has now been repurposed to host radar equipment, cameras, and speakers to provide announcements at the pad. The main gate is shortly after that and provides a sometimes unobstructed view of the Orbital Launch Table. This is where nearly everything goes in and out of the launch site.

The Orbital Launch Pad is the table and the very large 120 m (400 ft) tall tower with chopstick arms on it. This is where fully assembled and stacked Starship/SuperHeavy rockets will launch from. Next to the Orbital Launch Pad are eight cylinders which together make the Orbital Tank Farm. Some of these house water, while others house the propellants, oxygen and methane.

Where And Where NOT To Go At Starbase

The number one rule comes as an obvious one: wherever there is a sign indicating SpaceX property, don’t go past it. Roads are public and the land just off the road is generally public too. SpaceX property is almost always clearly indicated.

To play it safe, anytime you’re stopping to look, always park on the opposite side of the road from SpaceX property. For example, at the production site, park on the south side of the road and do not cross the road by foot. It’s important to remember that Highway 4 is a highway and has fast moving cars, so be careful pulling off, merging, and navigating the side of the roadway.

Remedios Ave gives the closest access to any rockets. By parking on Highway 4 and walking down to the Rocket Garden, you can get very close to whatever rockets may be there. As of publication, Remedios is still a public road. However, this may not last long, so be sure to check any signs before proceeding.

Any parking on SpaceX property and around the restaurant are not for public parking and reserved for employees. At the launch site, there is also a parking lot, but again for employees only. Pulling off on the side of the road opposite SpaceX property (the north side) is allowed.

However, areas near the beach can become hazardous very quickly. The sand level and depth can change daily leaving dozens of cars stuck. Only drive down the beach if your vehicle has all-wheel drive and tires that can handle deep sand. Another option is to park on the side of the road before the beach and walk up and down the beach to get new angles of the launch site.

On launch day, there is a large area around the entirety of Boca Chica Beach, Starbase, and Highway 4 called the exclusion zone or “keep out zone”. Nobody from the general public is allowed in this area during alunch preparations and activities. There are also designated spots on the water in the channel for mariners to watch the launch from.

Rules, Tips, And What To Bring

In this case, it could be helpful to think of Starbase as a desert with very little to no amenities around. There are no public restrooms or gas stations to fill up on snacks and water. Before leaving for Starbase, take the time to stop at a gas station and get everything listed below.

• Lots of water and food
• Hat, Sunglasses

Hydration is key, but that does not mean just drinking water while at Starbase. Before heading out the day before, ensure you drink plenty of water to maintain hydration.

General Rules

While some rules may sound like common sense, others may come as a surprise. It’s important to follow these rules closely to stay out of trouble and make it so others can get this close to the worlds biggest and most powerful rocket too.

• Don’t litter
• No crossing the river into Mexico. Matamoros is dangerous.

Overall a simple list to follow, but serious consequences can result otherwise. Starbase can be a fun place when safety and health are put first. The rockets do not need sunscreen.

Watching A Launch

Unlike Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Starbase has only been around in recent history and has never seen an orbital launch. This means that the infrastructure for the public to watch launches from Starbase is largely non-existent. An important note is that Highway 4 is completely closed on the day of a launch, so no members of the public will be able to travel down on launch day.

The only exception to this is Rocket Ranch . Rocket Ranch has a ranch where guests can stay in little Airstreams or their own RVs. They have an outpost further down Highway 4 that provides the closest viewing possible, however they are currently sold out of these tickets for the first Orbital Flight Test.

The next closest place is Isla Blanca Park on the southern tip of South Padre Island. To enter, they charge $12 cash, exact change not necessary. This can and will get very crowded on launch day, so it’s best to arrive a little early. Only a certain number of cars are allowed per day, but there is public parking at the Visitors Center and other spots further north.

Port Isabel is another spot to watch from. It is located before crossing the bridge on South Padre Island. The bridge itself is NOT a viewing location. There are very few direct views of the pad from Port Isabel due to the private residences in gated communities.

However, on Highway 48, which is the road to Port Isabel/South Padre Island, there are a few pull off spots like the Jamie J Zapata boat ramp. A reminder, Mexico is not an option due to the dangerous nature of Matamoros.

What To Bring

In general, it’s smart to envision any of these viewing locations just like Starbase. It will be just as hot and humid and the same precautions still exist. Sunscreen is a must and an umbrella may be beneficial to provide shade will be beneficial. Bathrooms will generally be closer, but due to the number of people trying to see a launch, the lines can be long and you may be at risk of losing your viewing spot.

A camera with a telephoto lens or binoculars are also good items to help with viewing. Starship/SuperHeavy will not leave a contrail, so it will mainly be visible as a large silver tube flying through the sky. While binoculars are not necessary, they could help enhance your viewing experiance.

How To Get To Starbase

This section will discuss how to get to Starbase by ground. Flying is covered in the next section and can be more complicated than driving. The best, and nearly only, way to get to Starbase is in a personal vehicle, either a rental car or your own car. Utilization of a GPS would be helpful here; just typing in “Starbase”, “Boca Chica Beach”, or “Boca Chica” should result in the same path as there is only one way to get there.

A specific address would be 1 LBJ Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78521, which is the restaurant. Although it’s not open to the public, it is an address to navigate to. It is possible to use a rideshare option like Uber or Lyft, but drivers are scarce and, once out there, getting between the launch site and production site is difficult. Additionally, the cost of the long drive might end up costing more than renting a car.

Border Checkpoint

While trekking out to Starbase, shortly after leaving Brownsville city limits, is a border check point. Although there is no border crossing at the checkpoint, due to the proximity to the border and the shallow depth of the Rio Grande near the beach, the United States Border Patrol keeps a station there.

Going out to Starbase, a stop will not be necessary. However, when returning to Brownsville from Starbase every vehicle will be stopped and questioned. The questions are generally very simple, “Are you a U.S. citizen?” and “Is there anyone else in the vehicle?” Answer these honestly and you will be sent on your way without problem. If there is a shift change at Starbase, the line will get very backed up. So in the morning and afternoon, keep this in mind.

For U.S. citizens, a drivers license will act as a form of ID. International travelers should have travel documents and their passport. The border patrol officers do not always ask for documentation, but will on occasion.

Flying To Starbase

There are three main airports that all provide good options for flying into south Texas and then driving to Brownsville. Some are easier and cheaper to get to than others, but may be further away.

BRO, or Brownsville, is the closest option and is relatively near to Starbase given it’s location on the outskirts of Brownsville. As of publication, you must either first fly to Dallas or Houston and get a connecting flight to Brownsville. In May of 2023, Avelo Airlines will offer direct flights to Brownsville from Orlando and Los Angeles.

HRL, or Valley International Airport in Harlingen, Texas, is also a good option, but requires a bit more of a drive, about an hour to Starbase. Depending on demand, HRL can be cheaper and have more rental car options.

MFE, or McAllen International Airport in McAllen, Texas, is about to an hour and a half from Starbase. Generally, MFE shares similar options and availability to HRL, but it’s an option nonetheless.

Flying from oversees might mean spending more time in Texas. In this case, it may be possible to save money and drive from a city like Austin, San Antonio, or Houston. Houston, of course, is where Johnson Space Center is located. Visitors can spend a day at Space Center Houston, which has interactive activities and a great museum.

Do not rely on rental cars being available at Brownsville or some of the airports in the Rio Grande Valley, so check carefully, especially around times of peak travel.

Where To Stay

There are numerous options for places to stay depending on the type of traveler you are. Some types include campers, luxury, adventure seekers, budget, and families. During times of peak travel and lots of activity, some options may be more available than others.

South Padre Island/Port Isabel

South Padre Island, or SPI, has a host of good options for those who want to see rockets, but also make a vacation in south Texas. SPI is host to a variety of restaurants, hotel options, and adventure experiences like dolphin tours. The dolphin tours are a good way to see the launch site from a unique perspective.

Margaritaville, formerly known as “The Pearl”, is a good option to have a pool, beach access, and a potential view of the rocket. The rooms are spacious and can accommodate a family easily. In order to have a good view of launch, getting a room on the south side about five floors up or higher is best. This is where Tim Dodd, the Everyday Astronaut, livestreamed SN8 and SN9 from!

Holiday Inn is a similar option to Margaritaville in terms of rooms and amenities, but does not offer balconies to view the pad from. Its proximity to the bridge enables easy access to the mainland and avoids a lot of the northern island congestion.

Hilton Garden Inn is located much further up north on the island and also does not have a good view of the launch pad. However, it offers great amenities and was recently renovated.

Lighthouse Cafe and Hotel in downtown Port Isabel is also a good option. It avoids the bridge, which means less traffic. The hotel also offers gelato and snacks and is within good walking distance from local and chain restaurants.

Casa Rosa Inn is another option in the Port Isabel area. Alternatives to this are AirBnBs and other spots for rent, so keep looking if these hotel options don’t suit you perfectly.

Those who enjoy camping can try and secure a spot at Isla Blanca Park on the southern tip of SPI.

Brownsville

Brownsville is home to most major hotel brands, but a lot of them are located on the highway and too far to walk to restaurants. They are, however, closer to Starbase by about 20 to 30 minutes. Generally, these hotels are cheaper than what can be found on SPI.

Rocket Ranch

Rocket Ranch is about as close as possible for anyone from the public to stay. There are small campers for individuals and they also offer spots for people with RVs to park and stay. Above all, the community at Rocket Ranch is full of more rocket loving people and will be a great welcome to south Texas. So far, they have hosted thousands of people and even more have booked stays.

In addition to a place to stay, they also offer bus tours to Starbase. These tours have been operating for a while, and will provide rich knowledge and history of Starbase.

When To Book Your Trip

Timing is everything and timing with a rocket test program is nearly impossible. Even SpaceX sometimes does not know when they will launch until just a week before. Generally, trying to book as close to a launch as possible is best.

Sometimes, booking less than five days in advance will yield the best results, but sometimes that is not possible. Oftentimes these launches will see many delays before actually flying, so it might be best to book for a week and be prepared to stay longer if that’s possible.

There is no exact answer for when to book, but it’s best to wait until as late as possible and be prepared to change dates. Read hotel and flight cancellation policies closely before booking.

Indicators of a launch could be FAA and FCC Licensing, road closures, beach closures, Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), maritime notices, and of course, an official statement from SpaceX. All of the latest can be found in Everyday Astronaut’s live updates article .

Where To Eat

South Padre Island and Port Isable have a variety of eating options from fresh sea food, to vegetarian, to acai, and even Starbase themed resturants. Each recommendation below is linked to their site which has more information.

• Ceviche Ceviche
• Russo’s Pizza
• Berry Divine on SPI and Beach Bowls on Port Isabel
• Hopper Haus

The proximity to Mexico means that there is an abundance of tacos. There are many local restaurants in Brownsville that sell local taco styles, like street tacos. Additionally, like SPI, there are nmerous types of resturants with different price points. There are also typical fast food chains on every corner, so if you are looking for something familiar, it is there.

• Ultima Taco
• La Villa Taqueria y Yogufrut
• Veggie Del Sol
• Terra’s Urban Kitchen
• Dodici Pizza

What Else Besides Starbase?

Before Starbase, South Padre Island was a popular vacation spot. The beach that runs along the island is great for typical beach activities, especially surfing. For surfing lessons, South Padre Surf Company has a local staff that are great instructors. Different parts of the island have different severity of waves, which makes it appealing to all skill levels.

Additionally, there are dolphin tours on both SPI and Port Isabel that will venture out into the channel and ocean to see dolphins leap from the water.

Also on the island is Gravity Park , an amusement part that features Go-Karts and other rides. Fishing and bird watch tours and boats are very common and leave from Port Isabel/SPI.

STARSociety hosts many stargazing events and STEM events for kids.

The Art Lounge on SPI has space themed art including a piece from Inspiration 4 Astronaut Dr. Sian Proctor .

Located in Brownsville is Gladys Porter Zoo , which has bike trails and coffee.

Overall, this article gives the most comprehensive overview of Starbase, how to visit, how to get there, and what to do there. Bookmark this tab so you can reference it when you make it down there! If you have any questions, leave them in the comments or email the author.

Great content, thanks Tim!

Boca Chica Starbase looks rather haphazardly designed, without much forethought of master planning. Thats sad and very inefficient, since poor design always has much higher costs and greater redundancy. Even the Starship design looks overly simplistic and wastes on functionality minimalist design approach. Maybe this is just prioritized stuff to get the buzz lighted.

Great job perfect timing thank you!

do u like taylor swift?

Thanks Tim. You provide a valuable service to both novice and expert alike. Good luck on your upcoming adventure.

Awesome overview Tim! I called Rocket Ranch, and they have 11 acres for camping, so that seems to be always available if you bring your own tent. And they have beer and restrooms 🙂

Hay Tim, you didn’t mention phone or internet coverage about Starbase and SPI, how is that??

A great topic for a deep dive would be safety of SH/ST launch to the public. You mentioned some viewing zones at about 5 miles from the launch pad, the size of the exclusion zone radius. Interview someone not from from SpaceX with expertise on rocket launch exclusion zones on the safety of the SH/ST launch. Five miles is likely not to be adequate if there is an explosion.

Also, the Mexican border is inside this safety zone. If Mexican citizens are injured by a SH/ST explosion SpaceX could create an international incident.

Robert Clark

Please remove if not allowed, but my husband and I rent a condo on SPI -> https://www.vrbo.com/1406811 It’s centrally located close to restaurants, bars and fun activities. It’s a 10 minute drive to Channel View Rd to see the launchpad from the bottom of SPI!

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New Texas Space Commission plans to spend $350 million to keep industry booming in Lone Star State

The state of Texas has rolled out a new commission that will keep the Lone Star State looking to the stars and boost the aerospace industry.

From west Texas with Blue Origin to the Rio Grande Valley with SpaceX and Houston with Johnson Space Center and the Spaceport, aerospace reaches across Texas with nearly 2,000 companies.

One of the many companies is located in central Texas. Firefly Aerospace will be working on a lunar lander that will set to fly to the moon this upcoming fall.

RELATED: Aerospace industry in Houston set to boom as numerous projects hit key milestones

"We'll orbit for about a month, and then we're going to touch down softly in the Mare Crisium region of the moon," Firefly Aerospace CEO Bill Weber explained.

A mission the company says was only possible with Texas.

"You get a lot of people who are changing industries who grew up in Texas," Weber said. "Oil and gas make great space professionals."

Weber's now part of the state's new space commission economic board trying to sell the idea to others. "There are a lot of other states coming hard," Weber explained. "There are a lot of other states seeing space as a viable next-generation business."

To slow them down, Gov. Greg Abbott launched a new space commission both on the ground and in space. Abbott shared the news with NASA astronaut Loral O'Hara aboard the International Space Station.

"Thank you to the state of Texas for doing all that you've done to support human space flight," O'Hara said.

In 2023, lawmakers approved creating the state space commission. They plan to invest $350 million over the next few years to help with education and company grants.

The commission includes nearly 20 industry leaders, whom Abbott introduced Tuesday at the Johnson Space Center.

He said it's an investment for aerospace and all of us because space impacts our everyday lives.

"It's a green field for advanced communications and technology, for artificial intelligence, for robotics, for biotechnology, for supply chain solutions," Abbott explained.

RELATED: Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su visits Houston and talks apprenticeships, child care, aerospace

If there's one place to keep moving toward the stars, it's the Lone Star State because the reach is already here.

"I don't know if we could find what we have in Texas or any other state in the country," Weber said.

State leaders said there are 150,000 Texans who work in the aerospace industry right now. The number is expected to grow.

A Morgan Stanley study showed that the global aerospace industry is expected to climb into a trillion-dollar industry in less than 20 years. The money the state hopes flows into our area thanks to Tuesday's announcement.

For updates on this story, follow Nick Natario on Facebook , X and Instagram .

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Prepping For The Moon — Why A VIP Tour Of Space Center Houston Is Worth The Money 

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There has been a rebirth in excitement about America’s space program as NASA, its contractors, and partnering nations prepare to send men, women, and the first crew of color to the Moon with the Artemis project in 2024. The world is once again entranced with the idea of space travel and visiting our nearest celestial neighbor, so much so that the 14 NASA Visitor Centers across the country are experiencing an uptick in attendance. 

The most popular is the Kennedy Space Center , where visitors are able to watch the largest rocket ever built hurl humans to the moon. The next most visited is Space Center Houston , which is part of the Johnson Space Center. Here is where the mission control centers and training for all of the nation’s manned space missions — from Gemini in the 1960s to the International Space Station (ISS) — have been located as well as the headquarters for our next leap to the moon, the Artemis missions. 

Whether you are a space geek, into history, or looking for a fun destination to visit, Space Center Houston should be on your list, especially with a ticket aboard their VIP Bus Tour . 

A Day At Space Center Houston 

Space Center Houston is packed with fascinating exhibits that look back at our history in space and how NASA is preparing to return humans to the Moon. There are authentic historic space capsules in the Starship Gallery , exhilarating motion simulators to ride, movies continually running in the Mission Briefing Center and Destiny Theater, displays where you can walk through the Skylab space station or view the Earth as the astronauts do through the cupola of the ISS, have lunch at Food Lab Market and Eatery , and more.

A highlight of a visit to the space center are the tram tours that take you to the George W.S. Abbey Rocket Park . Here, you can see the only complete Saturn V moon rocket, the Astronaut Training Facility, and a view of historic Mission Control where Apollo 11 was guided to the Moon from a special observation area. 

The first two tram tours are free with admission. Tickets can be reserved at the guest services counter. Admission is charged for the Mission Control Tour and must be reserved online . 

An Out Of This World Experience — VIP Tours 

Now, the tram tours are excellent, but if you really want to experience the Johnson Space Center firsthand, then upgrade your general admission to one of the two VIP Tour packages.

There are two packages available that run during the weekdays, one in the morning at 9 a.m. and the other at noon. Each lasts 3 hours and costs $199 per person. The tours are limited to 10 people per bus and tend to sell out quickly, so make those reservations early.

But why is upgrading your general admission ticket to a VIP Tour worth the money? 

1. Walk In The Steps Of History 

You can literally walk in the steps of history when you take the morning VIP Tour. The tour bus stops at the historic Christopher C. Kraft Mission Control Center . Walk up — or ride an elevator — to the third floor and see the historic mission control center where engineers guided the astronauts of Apollo 11 to the Moon and saved the lives of the crew of Apollo 13. 

The control room has been completely restored to its 1960s state. Each control console and display screen works the same as it did those many years ago. The room has been so precisely restored to its original state that when historians discovered cigarette butts under many of the consoles, they placed them back into the ashtrays that dot the rows of equipment.

After watching a film narrated by flight director Gene Kranz, who was in charge during the Apollo 11 landing from a special observation area, and unlike the tram tour, the doors are unlocked and you can actually walk inside the control room to view it firsthand. It’s an inspiring experience. 

From there, the tour makes a short walk to another room to view the actual ISS mission control room that is manned 24/7 to keep the ISS and crew flying safely. 

2. Touch History 

The morning tour makes a stop at the Crew Systems Laboratory. Here, you will learn about what it takes to make space suits, what astronauts go through to put on and take off a suit, and its important functions. You’ll even get to touch and examine a space-worn suit. There are also vintage suits from the early Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo eras on display.

3. Experience Unseen History 

While there are many artifacts on display in the main visitor center building, the VIP Tours take you to see many more artifacts that are not available to the general public. In the Crew Systems Laboratory, you can see the actual device that mission control improvised to purify the oxygen aboard the Apollo 13 mission that nearly ended in tragedy. 

You will also get to walk through the Ghost Shuttle in the Shuttle Avionics Integration Laboratory. This is an actual space shuttle (without walls and engines) where astronauts and engineers trained. Before every shuttle mission, the Ghost Shuttle was used to iron out any problems found in an upcoming flight before the shuttle left the ground. Walk inside the massive cargo bay then up the ladder to the crew area and sit at the console on the flight deck. 

4. Get Up Close With Astronaut Training 

The Johnson Space Center is the main training site for our astronauts heading to the ISS and now Orion, which will go to the Moon. Both tours take you to see the Astronaut Training Facility where full-size mockups of the ISS, Orion spacecraft, and Boeing Starliner capsule are used for training and troubleshooting. 

The afternoon tour also takes you to the Neutral Buoyancy Lab , a giant swimming pool that holds full-size mockups of the ISS and other capsules. It’s here that astronauts in their spacesuits practice underwater for their upcoming missions in virtually the same environment as they would in space. It also makes a stop at the Jake Garn Simulation and Training Facility where astronauts familiarize themselves with in-orbit laboratory systems. 

And who knows? As you look down into these training facilities at the work being done from a catwalk high above, you may be watching the next man or woman to walk on the Moon. 

VIP Tour Basics 

When you reserve a VIP Tour , meet up with your tour guide and receive a special VIP badge 15 minutes prior to beginning the tour. Space Center Houston does not open until 9 a.m., but ticket holders for the morning tour are allowed early entrance so that they can gather together before hopping on the bus. 

The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and can answer just about any question you have. 

Generally, the two tours include visits to:

• 9 A.M. Tour: Crew Systems Laboratory, Shuttle Avionics Integration Laboratory, Apollo Mission Control Center, ISS Mission Control Center 
• Noon Tour: Jake Garn Simulation and Training Facility, Astronaut Training Facility, Neutral Buoyancy Lab (NBL) 

When on the tour, any fanny packs, purses, backpacks, etc., must be left on the locked bus when you enter a building. 

Remember that these are working NASA facilities and you will be walking among working employees and contractors, so be considerate as you walk past their offices. 

Guests must wear closed-toe shoes on VIP tours to avoid injuries. Bathroom breaks are limited so be sure to hit a restroom before heading out.

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Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston 1601 Nasa Pkwy. Houston, TX 77058

ASTRONAUT CENTRAL Established as the Manned Spacecraft Center by NASA in 1961 and named in honor of the thirty-sixth president, the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center has been the global leader of human space flight operations for over thirty years. The Space Center, located south of Houston, was charged with the design, development, and operation of human space flight, a responsibility and goal set by President John F. Kennedy with the express purpose of landing men on the Moon. Today, the Space Center serves as the lead in NASA’s International Space Station, the largest and most complex human facility to operate in space. The Center is also home to one of the most entertaining attractions in the state with its full menu of visitor- friendly exhibits and activities.

The Starship Gallery houses the history of space travel and the space program, providing dazzling multi-media exhibitions featuring artifacts and hardware like the Mercury Atlas 9 capsule, the Apollo 17 Command Module, and the Gemini V Spacecraft. The Astronaut Gallery includes the actual spacesuits worn by astronauts commanding a number of the NASA programs. The NASA Tram Tour highlights the astronaut training program and the development of deep space manned missions, along with a behind-the-scenes look at Mission Control - real, out-of-this-world science right here on good ol’ planet Earth.

The recent restoration of Apollo Mission Control features the authentic consoles used to monitor nine Gemini, all Apollo Moon missions and 21 space shuttle missions. These missions include the flight of Apollo 11 that first landed men on the Moon, the Apollo 13 mission that famously experienced an in-flight emergency and 40 other space missions.

The Apollo Mission Control Center was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1985.

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NASA Selects Texas A&M as First Approved Exploration Park Facility

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Feb. 15, 2024

RELEASE: J24-003

NASA and the Texas A&M University System announced an agreement Thursday, Feb. 15, to lease underutilized land in Exploration Park, a 240-acre development at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. The A&M System will develop a facility to enable human spaceflight research and development that enables the commercial space economy .   

The lease agreement will allow the A&M System and others to use NASA Johnson land to create facilities for a collaborative development environment that increases commercial access and enhances the United States’ commercial competitiveness in the space and aerospace industries. 

NASA Johnson Director Vanessa Wyche, Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp, and Texas A&M University President Mark Welsh III announced the new collaboration at the AIAA-hosted Ascend Texas (ASCENDxTexas) Conference at South Shore Harbour Conference Center.

“For more than 60 years, NASA Johnson has been the hub of human spaceflight,” Wyche said. “Exploration Park will be the next spoke in the larger wheel of a robust and durable space economy that will benefit not only exploration of the Moon, Mars and the asteroids, but all of humanity as the benefits of space exploration research roll home to Earth.”

As the home of Mission Control Center for the agency’s human space missions, astronaut training, human health and space medicine, and leadership of premiere human spaceflight programs and missions, NASA Johnson leads the way for human space exploration. Leveraging this unique role and location, Exploration Park will play a key role in helping the human spaceflight community attain U.S. goals for the commercialization and development of a robust space economy by creating an infrastructure that fosters a multi-use environment where academic researchers, aerospace companies and entrepreneurs can collaborate with NASA and solve space exploration’s greatest challenges.

“The Texas A&M University System has a long history of supporting space-related research, and Texas A&M University has been a space grant university since 1989,” Sharp said. “This new agreement and planned facility will allow us to build on our space tradition and help us to be a major part of the commercial space economy.” NASA issued an announcement for proposals for use of the undeveloped and underutilized land near Saturn Lane on June 9, 2023, and has just completed negotiations with the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents to formalize the lease agreement. The parcel is outside of Johnson’s controlled access area and adjacent to its main campus. NASA will lease the land to the A&M System for an initial period of 20 years, with two additional 20-year options, for a potential total of 60 years.

“For the last 35 years, Texas A&M University has honored its space-grant mission by becoming a powerhouse in human and robotic space exploration,” Welsh said. “This agreement enables us to leverage faculty expertise, establish strategic partnerships and develop resources to foster new discoveries, technological innovations and a future workforce that will benefit Texas and the nation. We are grateful to NASA, the Board of Regents and the State of Texas for their vision and support of Texas A&M’s work in space exploration.”

In the coming years, NASA and its academic, commercial, and international partners will see the completion of the International Space Station Program, the commercial development of low Earth orbit, and the first human Artemis campaign missions establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon in preparation for human missions to Mars.

Johnson already is leading the commercialization of space with the commercial cargo and crew programs and private astronaut missions to the space station. The center also is supporting the development of commercial space stations in low Earth orbit, and lunar-capable commercial spacesuits and lunar landers that will be provided as services to both NASA and the private sector to accelerate human access to space. Through the development of Exploration Park, the center will broaden the scope of the human spaceflight community that is tackling the many difficult challenges ahead.

Kelly Humphries

Johnson Space Center, Houston 281-483-5111 [email protected]

Houston's best events for viewing the total solar eclipse

H ouston may not be in the path of totality for the upcoming total solar eclipse , but for locals who wish to avoid the traffic and exorbitant hotel rates , staying at home will still provide quite a show. Houston will see roughly 94 percent of the sun's surface covered by the moon—enough to darken the skies and give that cool shadow effect that makes for such good photos.

Lucky for us, Houston is filled with scientists and science nerds—this is Space City after all. That means there are plenty of events on April 8 to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime celestial event in the company of like-minded folks, and maybe also learn something in the process.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

The Houston Museum of Natural Science's two locations—Hermann Park and Sugar Land—will host eclipse watch parties complete with solar telescopes. Staff astronomers will be on hand to answer questions. Alongside solar crafts, CE Certified Solar Eclipse glasses, viewing guides, T-shirts, and other merchandise will be for sale at the museum's gift shops. The planetarium at HMNS Hermann Park will also be showing discounted screenings of “Totality Over Texas” at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m.

Then, at 1 p.m., as the eclipse begins, the planetarium will begin showing a livestream featuring updates from museum staff who will be filming directly within the path of totality in Bandera, Texas. This will give Houstonians a chance to see what totality might look like without having to travel. (This livestream will also be broadcast on HMNS's social media channels.)

Find out more about all the museum's events at the HMNS website .

Space Center Houston

From April 6–8, Space Center Houston is offering three days of interactive programming on the science of solar eclipses, along with musical performances, lectures on how eclipses have affected history, hands-on activities with the Houston Astronomical Society, planetarium presentations, and even a crafting class in which you can make your own solar system bracelet. On eclipse day, SCH will be handing out free eclipse glasses and host talks emceed by retired NASA astronaut Tony Antonelli. There's much more in the works too—check out SCH's website for extensive details.

Tickets to SCH start at $30 for adults , but be sure to book soon, as this event is likely to be popular.

Houston Zoo

See firsthand how wild animals react to an eclipse at the Houston Zoo, which will be distributing free eclipse glasses to guests (while supplies last) on April 8. Grab your glasses at the  Lone Star Pavilion near Cypress Circle Cafe beginning at 11 a.m. General admission to the zoo starts at about $30 for adults. Get tickets at HoustonZoo.org .

Houston Public Library

Several Houston Public Library branches will have eclipse parties, including crafts such as learning how to make a pinhole camera to view the event safely and eclipse-themed storytimes. Check the HPL website for specific locations , and make sure to register, as space is limited.

Memorial Park

Memorial Park is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, but it's been longer than that since Texas has had a total solar eclipse. (The last one was in 1878.) The park is sponsoring a viewing party on the recently completed Kinder Land Bridge from 1–3 p.m. on April 8. The event will include pinhole camera-making and lectures. (You'll have to bring your own eclipse shades.) Lawn chairs are welcome.