Astronomy Computer Programs!

Free Astronomy Software!!!

The first two programs on this list function as real-time star charts. You can pick a specific location and time and see what it looks like in the sky. You can also search for different objects such as planets, galaxies, nebulae and Messier objects . The other programs are neat for exploring and learning more about the universe.

Stellarium: is a free open source planetarium for your computer. It shows a realistic sky in 3D, just like what you see with the naked eye, binoculars or a telescope. It is being used in planetarium projectors. Just set your coordinates and go. Available for Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and as an IPOD touch application!

WinStars 2: From Francky company : WinStars uses the latest 3D technology to show the objects of our solar system in a realistic manner. Thus, it is possible to move from one planet to another, to follow a space probe on its long voyage or to observe a celestial event from a place to which you could never go. The use of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory s DE 404 planetary theories allow us to have a precise representation of the events displayed.

WorldWide Telescope (WWT): enables your computer to function as a virtual telescope, bringing together imagery from the best ground and space-based telescopes in the world. Experience narrated guided tours from astronomers and educators featuring interesting places in the sky.

Google Earth: Explore the Earth, Moon, Mars, and Space using this very popular free software package!

Never Stop Exploring!!!