In keeping with the time, Astronomy has advanced to include software for computers. A majority of the software to be found will be for Windows platform but there are some for Mactinosh and Unix as well. Additionally, there are several astronomy driven web pages accessible to anyone with internet access and a computer. Some of these software packages can be purchased for free, while other require payment. The cost for software can range from low to high, depending on what sort of features one is looking for.
Some software provides a full view of the night sky and then gives a guided tour of the different aspects right from the comfort of one's own computer chair. Other software gives presentation of the solar system and different aspects of the planets, as well as explores different galaxies. There is software which allows one to take pictures of their sky with their camera and/or webcam. The options are limitless. Especially now when telescopes are beginning to become computerized and one can hook up their telescope to a computer. This provides accessibility to keep track of the different astral bodies without needing to hand track them.
Astronomy software isn't all scientific. There are several games out there including SpaceStationSim which allows for interaction with astronomy on a more lighthearted level.
The most useful astronomy software, however, is the more scientific type. There are some software packages which provide hundreds of thousands of images of real life space and cd-rom discs which provide star charts, and the ability to print information. There are also astronomy software which allows a stargazer to keep track of their sessions, record it onto their computer, and some even have the Super Tycho star catalog. This puts a lot of astronomy information at the fingertips of the user without having to spend hours in the library or searching online.
Astronomy software packages can make the hobby more rich and interactive for some people, but it isn't a necessity. There were astronomers before the world of computers came along afterall!
Do you have something to say about Astronomy Software? Be the first to comment using the space provided below.
Bookmark this page with:
Delicious
Digg
reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
More helpful advice in
The Forum
Glitch delays Phoenix's work on Mars
Read full story for latest details....
Planets make case for 'crowded universe'
Read full story for latest details....
Shuttle back with 'beautiful landing'
Read full story for latest details....
Ex-planet gets namesakes
Read full story for latest details....