STAR GAZING

Gather up a few items…

You don’t need much to enjoy “The Greatest Show on Earth” in Cherry Springs, but having these items on hand can help improve the experience:

• Warm clothes/layers (even on summer nights, our mountain air can be brisk!)
• A flashlight with red filter or cover (to protect your night vision)
• Binoculars (7 x 50 power is recommended for stargazing, though 7 x 35 also works)
• A blanket or camping chairs for comfy star-watching
• A constellation guide or app for your device

The best times to visit:

The night sky can be frustratingly random. In the end, the stars, planets and clouds don’t really care very much about our stargazing wishes down here on Earth. But here are a few times when your viewing potential is better than others.

In Fall and Winter
The stargazing field at Cherry Springs is open year-round (as are our Astro Cabins, which have their own private stargazing fields). But the best seasons to visit are fall and winter. It may be chillier then, but the lessened humidity and extended night-time hours create excellent stargazing opportunities.

In Spring and Summer
Cherry Springs State Park comes alive in Spring and Summer with warmer temperatures and the new summer sky. The Milky Way comes alive every night. The evenings are times when memories are made, marriage proposals are brought forth and young and old gather to share once in a lifetime memories.

New Moon and Full Moon
Lunar viewing is excellent from Cherry Springs Park. The best time to view the Full Moon may not be ideal for star gazing. Stars become more prominent as the New Dark Moon approaches. Regardless, we will show you many more stars than you have ever seen, weather permitting of course.

When skies are clear (of course)
Check out the Cherry Springs Clear Sky Chart for up-to-date look at how the skies are shaping up for your visit. Look for dark blue squares in the row marked “Cloud Cover” — dark blue means clear skies for optimal viewing conditions.

During the Star Parties
Another great time to visit is during the twice-yearly Star Parties held at Cherry Springs. Both events brings hundreds of professional astronomers to the area—and culminate in a public viewing event with high-powered telescopes and astronomy talks from experts. The first, the Cherry Springs Star Party, is held in June by the Astronomical Society of Harrisburg. The second, the Black Forest Star Party, happens in September, thanks to the Central Pennsylvania Observers.

Quick Tips:

Have a look around our site for more information about stargazing, Coudersport, and at Cherry Springs State Park—including restaurant recommendations and day trips. In the meantime, here are a few more quick tips for an optimal stargazing experience.

• If you come to Cherry Springs for the Cherry Springs Star Party or Black Forest Star Party, consider reserving your lodging or campsite up to 4 or 5 months in advance. It books quickly!
• Keep an eye out for Coudersport and Potter County wildlife! Our residents include deer, turkey, coyotes, black bears, bobcats and, in southern Potter County, elk.
• Always use a red filter or cover on your flashlights to help your eyes adjust to night vision.
• Don’t give up on the stars too soon! Your eyes need 15 minutes to adjust for the full spectrum of stars.