Information

You are now REQUIRED to pre-register for all scheduled public stargazing programs. This is to control the number of attendees and to ensure the best possible stargazing experience to the public. The best way to register is to go to the DCNR Calendar of Events.

You can also call the Lyman Run state park office to make a reservation if you are not able to access on line . (814) 435-5010

Park in the PUBLIC PARKING LOT on the north side of Rt. 44. Do NOT park on the Astronomy Observation Field.  There is no fee for the public programs, there is a fee levied if you are on the Astronomy Field.

Public Stargaze programs generally run from May until October.  This is a great way for your family to explore the night sky together.  Programs topics cover the planets, constellations, star formation, satellites, and the surface of the moon.  Some nights the observing is done “naked eye” where you will be taught to “star-hop” from one familiar star to another.  Binocular programs teach you to find features that are easy to find with the use of binoculars, one of the best ways to stargaze with affordable and easy to use equipment.  Program participants are always encouraged to bring along a pair of binoculars regardless of the program theme.  And lastly, looking at the night sky with telescopes.  Cherry Springs has many types of telescope that are used during public programs and thanks to our Dark Sky Team volunteers, you can look through these scopes as well.  

Those weekends when the moon is out, lunar programs will be offered and during the full moon weekends – programs on nocturnal wildlife will be offered (the moon is so bright that the stars are hardly visible).  If the weather is overcast, alternate programs will be offered ( a slide presentation or movie and these might be presented at the park pavilion, signs will direct you to the correct location).