Free, in-person programs are being held this Saturday, Oct. 21 at Cherry Springs State Park at 4639 Cherry Springs Road, Coudersport, Pa. 16915. The park is 12 miles from Route 6 in Galeton via West Branch Road and 15 miles from Coudersport via Route 44.

Registration is not needed for any Oct. 21 programs. All visitors should arrive at the park before dark whether they are attending a stargazing program or are observing on their own. Stargazing programs are in the Night Sky Public Viewing Area. Park in the gravel lot and follow the walkway next to the restrooms to the seating area. Since seating is limited, bring a lawn chair and/or blanket. Leave pets at home.

Check the Clear Sky Chart or Astrospheric for 48-hour forecasts of cloud cover and viewing conditions. All programs will be cancelled if the forecasted wind chill is below 25°F, or if rain or snow is forecast.

Night Sky Tour: Introduction to the Fall Sky is This Saturday, Oct. 21, 7pm to 7:45pm

Experience the wonder of the night sky at Cherry Springs State Park through a laser-guided tour conducted by park staff. Explore the constellations of Ursa Major (Big Bear, containing the Big Dipper), Sagittarius, and Cygnus the Swan. Listen as staff recounts the legends and myths surrounding these mysterious patterns in the sky. Learn about park history, current use, and the importance of dark night skies.

International Observe the Moon Night is This Saturday, Oct. 21, 8pm to 9pm

International Observe the Moon Night is a worldwide public event that encourages observation, appreciation and understanding of Earth’sMoon and its connection to space science, exploration, and human culture. This annual event connects scientists, educators and lunar enthusiasts from around the world. 

Under the guidance of Cherry Springs State Park volunteers and staff, embark on an amazing telescope tour of the moon’s surface to view its natural features. Explore the moon’s diverse landscape from highlands to volcanic plains and discover where moon mission landings took place among them.

Telescopes are available on a first-come, first-served basis subject to staff and volunteer availability, weather conditions, and crowd size limitations.

International Observe the Moon Night is sponsored by NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission and the Solar System Exploration Division at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, with many contributors. LRO is managed by NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. For more information about International Observe the Moon Night, visit: https://moon.nasa.gov/observe. For more information about LRO, visit: https://www.nasa.gov/lro 

Questions?

For answers, call 1-814-435-1037 or email cherryspringsee@pa.gov