Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania is regularly quoted as being the 'very darkest stargazing site on the Eastern Seaboard'. In 200 Cherry Springs was declared the first Dark Sky Park by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; all lights within the park must now be shielded and every white light has been changed to red. This park is really geared towards encouraging enjoyment of the night skies.

The astronomy field is located at the summit of a mountain 2,300 foot above sea level and, surrounded as it is by valleys, offers truly amazing panoramic views of the night sky.

The park has four small observatories which can be rented out throughout the year but it also runs free public stargazing programmes throughout the summer, featuring guest speakers, laser-pointer guided night sky tours and including observing through binoculars and telescope time.

Cherry Springs is also a popular meeting point for 'star parties' which you must be registered to attend but are a great way to become involved in the rich network of people across the world who share a passion for amateur astronomy.

Written by  Anna Dejardin.

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its is truely beautiful in that part of PA. My family has lived in Potter County (only a short drive from Cherry Springs) for 5 generations. I don't care about the star gazing i just hope that with all of the hooplah about it that everyone respects the beauty of the country up there and keeps it clean so many others can enjoy it.

 

Comment posted 30th September 2009 by casey.

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