If we had to describe the Sky Map in one word, that would be “lifesaver”. If your phone doesn’t have either or both of them, you can still download a star map and use in manual mode like a regular star chart. Make sure your device has a built-in compass and accelerometer as these sensors are required to determine the phone’s position and orientation. Stargazing apps are brilliant virtual guides that display a map of the sky in whatever direction you point your phone in. Celestia runs on Windows, Linux and Mac OS.

The simulator is very popular with teachers and astronomy communicators so we will not be surprised that you’ve already seen it in some space presentation. This software features a very impressive 3D Space simulator for those who want to explore the Solar System and beyond. To download go to Ĭelestia is way more than just an interactive planetarium. There is also on-line version (very handy for Chromebook users) as well as pay-for mobile version of Stellarium. You can zoom in, click on individual objects for more information and even keep an observational log book! The software runs on Windows, Linux and Mac OC. Constellations, meteor showers, passing satellites, deep sky objects and more. It shows the night sky as seen from your location. Stellarium is WonderDome’s favourite software that we use during our presentations. Indoor stargazing? Easy! Planetarium software allows users to explore the night sky on their computers without leaving the house, day or night! Learn to identify prominent stars and constellations and then test your knowledge on the real sky! Stellarium Identifying stars and constellations has never been easier! Not sure you can find Big Dipper, point at the North Star or tell which of those star-like dots are actually planets? Don’t worry! Here are some of the most popular Android and IOS apps and computer programs that will help you to prepare for the upcoming constellation spotting and even tell you in real time what celestial objects you are looking at. The temperature is…well… reasonable and it gets dark early enough even for young children to partake in this fantastic activity. Autumn is a fantastic time for stargazing.

Open source planetarium software