Due to its exceptionally dark skies, Cherry Springs State Park is one of the best places on the eastern seaboard for stargazing and the science of astronomy(opens in a new tab), which is the study and observation of:
- Planets
- Nebulae
- Galaxies
- Stars
- Other heavenly bodies
A dark night sky is a natural resource, just like plants, waterways, and wildlife. Recognizing this unique resource needed to be managed and protected, during 2000, DCNR declared Cherry Springs State Park its first Dark Sky Park.
Dark Sky Fund/Association
The Cherry Springs Dark Sky Fund/Association(opens in a new tab) is a “Friends” group under the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation(opens in a new tab).
Their mission is the protection of the dark night sky at Cherry Springs State Park and enhancing the astronomy experience through facility improvement and educational outreach programs.
Dark Sky Fund donations will be used to enhance the stargazing and astronomy experience at Cherry Springs State Park. Physical improvements to the park will help to eliminate any outside light pollution and remove overhead obstructions.
Donations will also be used to educate local residents and visitors about the value of the night sky resource and why it needs to be preserved.
Fund donations have been used to:
- Plant light screening trees and shrubs
- Convert all park lighting to shielded, red-light fixtures
- Bury overhead electrical lines
- Install electrical pedestals on the astronomy field
The fund also has provided educational materials about astronomy and environmentally friendly lighting in the park and surrounding communities.
Decisions about how the fund monies are spent are a collaborative effort of the park management and the Dark Sky Fund Advisory Council. The council is made up of astronomers from all over the country who regularly observe at Cherry Springs.
How to Donate
Donation forms and envelopes for the Cherry Springs Dark Sky Fund are available at the astronomy information bulletin board, located adjacent to the restroom on the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field and donations may be inserted into the Dark Sky Fund’s donation tube -- a square, blue fee tube located next to the astronomy information bulletin board.
Please do not combine park fees and donation fees. Use the separate forms and envelopes. Thanks for your support!
