The McDonald Observatory is open to the public (a consequence, as I understand, of it being on the highest-elevation public highway (6,814 ft, 2,077m) in Texas, and hence having right of public access), with both guided and self-guided tours of several of the telescopes / domes, including the 2.7m Smith scope. The damage is visible from the public gallery as I recall.
The scope is primarily used for spectroscopic studies, though it can also be used for direct visual imaging, which might account for why it's even less susceptible to mirror damage than might otherwise be the case.
The region is quite rural, with the nearest settlements being Fort Davis to the southeast and Fort Stockton to the northeast. Among other local attractions are Alpine ("AL-peen"), home to a federal courthouse, and Marfa, a remarkably liberal artist colony.
Remarkably beautiful following a freezing frost in winter time, as well.
The scope is primarily used for spectroscopic studies, though it can also be used for direct visual imaging, which might account for why it's even less susceptible to mirror damage than might otherwise be the case.
The region is quite rural, with the nearest settlements being Fort Davis to the southeast and Fort Stockton to the northeast. Among other local attractions are Alpine ("AL-peen"), home to a federal courthouse, and Marfa, a remarkably liberal artist colony.
Remarkably beautiful following a freezing frost in winter time, as well.