Astronomy has been Mahon's hobby since he was 12. Mahon was living nearby, doing title-insurance work and teaching astronomy on the side, when he decided to open an inn. He and his former wife and business partner, Blair Mahon, opened the Star Hill Inn 10 years ago. Actually a collection of cabins, it has grown steadily since then. There are seven comfortable units, each with fully equipped kitchen and a fireplace - but no telephones or televisions.
Tranquillity is prized here.
Red-bulbed flashlights are provided in each cabin. Late arrivals are asked to turn off their headlights and use only parking lights to navigate the long driveway so as not to blind sky-watchers. Guests gather in the evenings on a wooden observation deck to use the telescopes. Guests are welcome to rent it. Or they can plop down in chairs on the deck and just enjoy the brilliance of the night sky with the naked eye.