The York County Astronomical Society (YCAS) will offer a public Starwatch at its observatory at John C. Rudy County Park, 400 Mundis Race Road, York, on Saturday, April 11, from 8 to 10 p.m.

The event will begin with a screened astronomical presentation on current astronomy topics.

Guests will then be guided on a tour of the sky through one of the club's telescopes. Attendees will be shown a host of celestial objects.

While the event is free and open to the public, donations will help the society to continue to bring astronomical events to York County and surrounding areas.

If it is clear, all activities will occur as scheduled. In the event of extreme weather, call 717-759-YCAS (9227) for notice of cancellation or visit http://www.astroyork.com or http://www.facebook.com/AstroYork.

Those who own a telescope but are not sure how to use it may schedule a lesson at the observatory by emailing info@astroyork.com.

YCAS will also offer programs to the public on Saturday, April 18, at the planetarium in the York Learning Center, 301 E. Sixth Ave., York.

Programs suitable for children will be "One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure" at 2 p.m. and "Rusty Rocket's Last Blast" at 3:20 p.m. Older viewers are invited to attend "Forward! To the Moon" at 7 p.m. and "Big Astronomy" at 8:20 p.m. Starwatch programs will take place at 2:40 and 7:40 p.m.

There is an admission fee, with a discount for children and seniors. The fee will also be reduced when attendees view a second or third show. Cash and most credit and debit cards are accepted.

Private show reservations are available for groups of up to 60 people.

For more information, visit http://www.astroyork.com.