FALL SKIES: Have you ever wanted to see an unobstructed, beautiful view of the night sky? Head on over to Cherry Springs State Park in Coudersport, where free programs over the weekend will show you what you are missing with the lights of “big cities” like Bradford.

The park is 12 miles from Route 6 in Galeton via West Branch Road and 15 miles from Coudersport via Route 44.

On Saturday, Introduction to the Fall Sky is scheduled 7 to 7:45 p.m. as park staff conduct a laser-guided tour exploring the constellations of Ursa Major (Big Bear, containing the Big Dipper), Sagittarius and Cygnus the Swan.

Listen to the legends and myths surrounding these patterns in the sky and learn about park history, current use and the importance of dark night skies.

Then, consider staying for International Observe the Moon Night from 8 to 9 p.m. A worldwide public event that encourages observation, appreciation and understanding of Earth’s Moon and its connection to space science, exploration and human culture, this annual event connects scientists, educators and lunar enthusiasts from around the world.

Under the guidance of Cherry Springs State Park volunteers and staff, embark on an amazing telescope tour of the moon’s surface to view its natural features. Explore the moon’s diverse landscape from highlands to volcanic plains and discover where moon mission landings took place among them.

Telescopes are available on a first-come, first-served basis subject to staff and volunteer availability, weather conditions and crowd size limitations. Programs are canceled if rain or snow is forecast.

Registration is not required for either program. For more information, contact Cherry Springs State Park at (814) 435-1037 or email cherryspringsee@pa.gov.

For more information about International Observe the Moon Night, visit: https://moon.nasa.gov/observe.