Olean.
The definitive guide to dark skies and celestial observation in Olean, NY. Verified using National Park Service and NASA Night Sky Network Clubs data.
Quick Guide for Olean
- Top Community Pick: Cherry Springs State Park (~30.1 miles)
- Best Scientific Reading: Bortle 6.0 at Caboose Farm
- Local Experts: Marshal Martz Memorial Astronomical Association, Inc.
- Verified Observations: 5 distinct spots
If you’re looking to escape the light pollution of Olean, you’re in luck. While enthusiasts often gather at Cherry Springs State Park for its accessibility, scientific audits conducted by the National Park Service at Caboose Farm provide the most accurate reading of the regional sky quality, measuring at a Bortle 6.0. The local landscape of Olean offers several pockets of darkness that are perfect for deep-sky observation.
The Best Times for Stargazing in Olean
Since Olean sits in a transitional light zone, viewing is best during the New Moon or after midnight when some commercial lighting is reduced.
Expert Tips for Olean Observers
When visiting Cherry Springs State Park, remember to check if the gates close at sunset or if a night-use permit is required. Binoculars are a favorite for regulars this location for sweeping views of the Moon’s craters and larger constellations. Local enthusiasts often frequent this spot, making it a great place to meet experienced observers. Regardless of your gear, allow 30 minutes for your eyes to fully dark-adapt.
New York Guide
Local Top Spots
Community-vetted locations known for clear horizons and accessibility for telescopes and astrophotography.
Cherry Springs State Park
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Martz-Kohl Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Martz Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Martz Observatory - Marshal Martz Memorial Astronomical Association, Inc.
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
Beaver Meadow Observatory
" Standard Advice: Dress in layers as temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Use a red-light flashlight to preserve your night vision. "
NPS Sky Measurements
Instrumented readings from the National Park Service Night Sky Program, providing the most accurate SQM and Bortle classifications.
Caboose Farm
Catoctin Mountain Park
"Set up camera in field at Caboose Farm about 200 yds SW of Camp Round Meadow. Numerous direct glare sources from local farms and a building at Camp Round Meadow. A few clouds around the horizon to start but skies cleared completely by third set. Very high humidity along with warm temps causing high extinction. Sky glow from Frederick easily visible, as is the greater Baltimore-D.C. area. Milky Way is barely visible and most deep sky objects not visible. Decent view of most standard constellations and the night sky is still markedly better than from within Frederick or other comparable cities."
Meadow south of Church House
Hopewell Furnace NHS
"Sky quality measurements were recorded at Meadow south of Church House in Hopewell Furnace NHS on 8/16/2014. The site demonstrated a scientific darkness reading of 19.87 SQM."
International Dark Sky Parks
Premier locations certified for their exceptional dark sky quality and commitment to light pollution mitigation.
Cherry Springs State Park
Due to its exceptionally dark skies, Cherry Springs State Park is one of the best places in the eastern U.S. for stargazing. Situated at 700 m above sea level…
Geauga Observatory Park
The idea for Observatory Park began with the donation of a 0.64-meter telescope and a small parcel of land. In 2008, the park acquired nationally recognized…
Local Astronomy Clubs
Connect with experts and fellow enthusiasts through local astronomical societies and community groups.