If you are camping out, you might want to check out the SkyView Stargazing App. There are a couple of versions of this app - a basic edition (which is free), and a more detailed version available at a modest price.
The app gives viewers a variety of details. On its most basic level, when you point your device at the ground, a compass appears. When you point it at a star, it tells the name of the star, what constellation it is in, the star's classification, how many light years it is from Earth, and its location on star charts. Major constellations show up as pictures showing how the ancients connected the dots to create a picture. If you tap on them, additional information about the constellation appears at the bottom. Other items that show up are the Hubble Telescope, the International Space Station, the moon and planets which also can be tapped for additional interesting facts, including their orbits (with the local time they will appear at certain points in the sky).
One of the most interesting things about the app is that you can even use it on cloudy nights. You might not be able to see the stars or planets, but you can see where they should be in relation to each other. You can even "see through" the Earth and find out where the sun is currently located in relation to your current position, and at what time it will rise above the horizon.
Although I'm still getting to know this app for myself, my daughter and I have enjoyed looking for constellations with it. If you or your kids have any interest in space, I recommend that you give it a try. It might create some great opportunities on a camping trip to explore and ponder the mysteries of the universe.
No comments:
Post a Comment