In-person programs are being held this Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, June 30, July 1, 2 and 3 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. 

Star gazing programs are all held 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 and spring nights are chilly, those attending may want to bring a chair and/or blanket. 

Programs will be cancelled in the event of rain or thunder. Telescopes will not be available if there is significant cloud-cover. Check the Clear Sky Chart or Astrospheric for 48-hour forecasts of cloud cover and viewing conditions. 

Registration is encouraged but not required for free in-person programs. The public may choose to register because they will receive an email if a program is cancelled or modified due to weather, etc.  

All visitors should arrive before dark, including those who plan to observe the night sky on their own and are asked to leave pets at home. 

Identifying Moving Lights in the Sky is Next Friday, June 30 from 8pm to 8:45pm

It’s National Meteor Day. It’s a bird? It’s a plane! It’s, a what, exactly? Learn how to tell the difference between meteors, planes, and satellites during this short program. 

Nature at Night: Whoop’s There? is Next Saturday, July 1 from 8:30pm to 9:30pm

After a half-hour presentation exploring owl traits and identification, park staff and visitors will go on a one-mile walk over mostly level grass and gravel surfaces to listen and look for owls. They can be a little shy, so be prepared to silently stand still at times. Wear suitable footwear for potentially damp grass and those who have one should bring a red-light flashlight.  

Through Our Telescopes: Moon Watch is 9:30pm to 10:15pm Next Friday, Sunday and Monday, June 30, July 2 & 3 and from 10pm to 10:45pm Saturday, July 1

Under the guidance of park volunteers and staff, embark on an amazing telescope tour of the moon’s surface, from natural features such as highlands and volcanic plains to moon mission landing sites. No preregistration is required. Telescopes are available on a first-come, first-served basis for the time listed subject to staff and volunteer availability, weather conditions, and crowd size limitations.

To Register

Register at https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/cherry_springs_state_park for park programs. Questions? Call 1-814-435-1037 or email cherryspringsee@pa.gov.