Sky Map(formerly known as Google Sky Map) is a freereferenceapplication that was developed by Sky Map Devs for mobile devices. It serves as aninteractiveastronomyappthat enables users to learn more aboutheavenly bodies, such as stars, constellations, and other subjects.
Just like withMobile ObservatoryorSkyPortal, Sky Map lets users freely explore anopen map of the sky, free to do as they wish and learn various facts and information as they go along. UsingGPSand acompass, it can also set map views in the correct orientation.
Sky Map is essentially aplanetarium appthat was initially developed and released by a group of Google engineers back in 2009. It has since beendonatedis now being maintained by an independent development group as anopen-sourcereference and education solution. Thesource codeis freely available to anyone who wishes to use it for their own needs and purposes.
The data and images that it uses come from various sources, such as NASA'ssatellite images, the HubbleSpace Telescope captures, and other information that has been made available to the public. It also integrates with theMaps APIto create multiple map versions of the night sky. It is able to display a map of the sky where you point your device.
The is able to do this by taking advantage of your device's GPS, compass, and gyro sensor. These help it determine thedirection and orientationof the part of the sky that you're looking at. All of this is being done inreal-time, so the view on your smartphone willdynamically changeand adjust as you move or adjust the direction you're facing.
As mentioned earlier, Sky Map relies on your device'shardware and sensorsfor its functions. As such, one of the first that you need to make sure that everything is working properly, especially your GPS and gyro sensors. It will even help youcalibrateyour compass with afigure-eight motionbefore you start doing anything.
How you will use will depend on what you need it for. It can be used primarily as areference toolfor stargazers and enthusiasts. Alternatively, it can also beused to teachkids more about the stars and constellations in the night sky to encourage their curiosity and interest in the field of science and astronomy.
Sky Map is optimized fortouch inputand makes it easy for you to explore and navigate usingswipes and gestures. As for downsides, there are a few aspects where it falls a bit short. The first is with itslimited scope of informationto stars, constellations, and planets. The other has to do withdesign that feels quite outdatedat this point.
Overall, Sky Map isa nice astronomy appthat can be enjoyed by just about anyone. Whether you use it for your hobby or for learning. While it could use a larger scope and a redesigner, itworks well and reliably. If all you need is a simple tool to help you appreciate the view from the night sky, give this one a try.
