Editor's Review
Explore the cosmos with Sky Map, a fantastic hand-held planetarium app for your Android device! 🌌 Originally developed as Google Sky Map, this app has been open-sourced, making it free and accessible for everyone. Whether you're an astronomy enthusiast or just curious about the night sky, Sky Map helps you identify stars, planets, nebulae, and more with ease. 🔭
Key Features:
- Star Identification: Simply point your phone at the sky to identify stars, planets, and constellations in real-time. 🌠
- Manual Mode: Take control of your view with manual mode, allowing you to explore the sky at your own pace. 🧭
- Offline Functionality: No internet connection? No problem! Sky Map works offline, so you can explore the stars anytime, anywhere. 🛰️
- Compass Calibration: Ensure accurate orientation by calibrating your compass, keeping your map aligned with the real sky. 📍
- Beta Testing: Join the beta testing program to get the latest features and improvements before anyone else. 🧪
Troubleshooting Tips:
Having issues with the map not moving or pointing in the wrong direction? Make sure you're not in manual mode and that your phone has a compass. Calibrate your compass by moving it in a figure of 8 motion. Also, ensure there are no nearby magnets or metal objects interfering with the compass. ⚙️
Experiencing jittery movement? Adjust the sensor speed and damping in the settings. If autolocation isn't working, ensure you've enabled location permissions for Sky Map in your Android settings. 📱
Get Involved:
Sky Map is more than just an app; it's a community! Find us on GitHub, Facebook, and Twitter to stay updated, contribute, and share your astronomical discoveries. 🧑💻
Download Sky Map today and start exploring the universe from the palm of your hand! ✨
Features
Identifies stars, planets, and nebulae
Functions as a hand-held planetarium
Originally developed as Google Sky Map
Open-sourced for community development
Manual mode for customized exploration
Compass calibration for accuracy
Adjustable sensor speed and damping
Beta testing program for new features
Pros
Identifies stars, planets, and nebulae
Open source and free to use
Works without an internet connection
Cons
Requires compass for accurate orientation
Jittery on phones without a gyro