The best astronomy apps will take you to infinity and beyond without you even having to leave earth’s atmosphere. No need to contact Huston as all you require to know about the vast terrains just beyond our reach can be attained right at your fingertips. The subject in question has never failed to intrigue countless generations over the past years. The mysteries of the skies were earlier available only to scholars, royalty and noblemen. However, in this day and age, you’ll be able to gaze upon these space wonders through your Android- or iOS-powered devices.
1 – Star Chart:
Now you can carry a virtual star chart in your pocket wherever you go. To the untrained eye, the night sky can appear to be a wonderful blanket of sparkling stars. But if you want to really know just which heavenly bodies are staring down at you this very moment then simply point your handy gadget at the open sky and let the program enlighten you with the respective names and data bits. Even in broad daylight you’ll be able to know the exact locations of the different planets, stars and the moon. There’s also a useful Time Shift feature thrown into the Android and iOS amalgamation. You’ll be able to see all 88 constellations and 120,000 stars, among other wonders right here.
Price: $2.99
2 – SkyView:
Wondering whether there’s a full moon tonight or where the constellation Orion is located? Well, you’ll find the answers to all this and more via the next inclusion in our lineup. Fashioned for the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, the software has the ability to neatly merge camera view with 3D graphics of the celestial objects.
And in turn, you’ll be able to see an AR view of the sky above you. Share your out-of-this-world experience with loved ones by sending snapshots through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also view satellites, constellations, stars and sky paths without undergoing much fuss. You can even avail of the free version if you feel that the $2 price tag might be a little too steep for you.
Price: $1.99
3 – Astronomy Picture of the Day:
Each day you’ll be treated to a brand new picture of the cosmos. You can automatically download and even splash them across your Android-infused handset or tablet by setting the lot as your homescreen wallpaper. You’ll also be able to read up on interesting space facts about the snaps that feature different aspects of the universe. The developer of this app calls on all star gazers to learn something new every day.
Price: Free
4 – Star Walk:
Noted to be one of the most popular options in our Astronomy apps roster, this iPad, iPhone and iPod touch software piece is your gateway to learning all the constellations, stars and satellites that are present in the universe. The application also comes complete with stunning graphics and informative bits.
Some of the other attributes here include Satellites Tracking, AR, Calendar of Celestial Events, Night Mode, Star Spotter, Time Machine and Picture of the Day. The unique search ability will also help point at any celestial object you wish.
Price: $2.99
5 – NASA App:
NASA brings to the forefront its official Android and iOS apps for the respective devices. You’re invited to get up close and personal with videos, pictures, news, mission information, tweets and feature stories that are all plucked right out from the acclaimed space agency. There are more than 157,000 images to take advantage of as well as NASA TV, countdown clocks, launch data, current visible passes and maps to all the NASA centers.
And if you want to share specific information bits with friends, you can always exploit the integrated Twitter and Facebook Connect options located within the app itself.
Price: Free
6 – SkySafari 3 Plus:
With this particular contender in our array fitted in your iDevice, you’ll be able to easily be acquainted with spectacular events such as eclipses and transits in the Earth’s sky. Explore the solar system with 1100 encyclopedic descriptions, more than 800 images from the Hubble Space Telescope, NASA space missions and renowned astro-photographers.
It also strides across with a Night button for the dark adaptation, Time Flow feature and SkyWeek which is the mobile version of the ‘Sky at a Glance’ column.
Price: $14.99
7 – Cosmographia:
Our final gem is compatible with only the iPad. When you part ways with just under $5, you’ll be able to take complete advantage of a solar system simulation that merges together real data and beautiful 3D graphics. This mixture helps shed more light on the positions and appearances of moons, asteroids, planets, spacecrafts and dwarf planets. You can even tweak the time frame to view past, present and future events. You’ll also be able to get your hands on high resolution maps, follow the Cassini mission, watch volcanic eruptions and view eclipses on Jupiter, Saturn and Earth.
Price: $2.99
Conclusion:
If you’ve always wanted to own a telescope so that you could stare at the stars at your own leisure, well, you won’t have to waste you wishes anymore on that front. All you need to know about the planets, asteroids, meteoroids and other such phenomenon are neatly packed in the form of informative apps found across Google Play and iTunes. And after you’re done relishing the aforesaid best astronomy apps, you’ll be able to boast to friends and family just how wonderful the universe really is. Each software piece has pictures, information and even live photos. So reach for the stars and remember, ‘the sky’s the limit.’ Don’t forget to punch in the names of your favorites once you’re done glancing at the options.
