http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/cherrysprings/cherrysprings_darkskies.aspx

Due to its exceptionally dark skies, Cherry Springs State Park is one of the best places in the eastern seaboard for stargazing and the science of astronomy, which is the study and observation of planets, nebulae, galaxies, stars and other heavenly bodies.

A dark night sky is a natural resource, just like plants, waterways and wildlife. Recognizing that this unique resource needed to be managed and protected, in 2000, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources declared Cherry Springs State Park the first Dark Sky Park.

The Dark Sky Experience

A combination of attributes makes Cherry Springs ideal for stargazing and astronomy.

• The field is at the top of a 2,300-foot high mountain. The surrounding state forest is relatively undeveloped and nearby communities are in valleys, shielding any light that might affect the park.
• The Astronomy Field offers an excellent 360 degree view of the night sky.
• The airspace over the park has little commercial air traffic, making the park ideal for astrophotography.
• The location of the park, 41.6501 degrees north, 77.8164 degrees west, offers a great view of the nucleus of the Milky Way Galaxy.
• All lighting in the park is shielded and all white light has been converted to red.
• There are no overhead electrical lines, just electrical pedicels for the charging of telescope batteries and small appliance or laptop use.
• Setting Up On the Astronomy Field

White light sources are prohibited on the Astronomy Field unless it is 100% cloudy. Flashlights must be “red-light” only and you must turn off your vehicle headlights while driving on the field roads after dark. Light sources in campers, vehicles and computer screens must also be blocked or filtered.

Green laser devices are prohibited.

Directions from Bloomsburg, PA to Cherry Springs State Park