| Sky Map Online User Comments: |
Gumby
It seems to me that every night one see a different set of stars because of Earth orbit. As I figure if I am correct that the night view of Earth point outwardly away from the Sun all around through four seasons. What you see during wintertime is exactly opposite to what you see during summertime as well as fall and spring. I also find it interesting that a circle consists of 360 degrees similar to number of days in a year (365), so every night one will see one half degree disappear while another half degree appears in the whole sky set of stars.
4/14/2015 2:45:08 PM
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Gumby
For any concerned with light pollution that makes too many stars disappear before one's own naked eyes, even though telescopes can still help one spot the disappeared stars, there is online maps that shows where the light pollution are and are not . For most metropolitian centers, one probably needs to drive at least 50 miles out of the centers to enjoy the lowest brackets of light pollution. All u need to do is to google "light pollution" and you will come up with nice list of links to different light pollution information including maps , etc. it is educational.
4/14/2015 2:38:36 PM
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Gumby
I am posting a message here as an impatient astronomer without knowledge about the sky whatsoever, yet bought a decent telescope that cost only $315 or so. it is BRESSER AR102S Comet Edition that can be bought online . it is a very good beginner telescope because of doublet objective lens that gives crisp viewing with 20mm EP included. For around $45, you can order 10mm EP that will give you 46x magnifaction . Stars are crispy and colorful to one's own delight. it is as basic as it gets as one can aim anywhere frequently without too much fuss . I am surprised that it is not catching on among the beginners who are needlessly fancied with the cheap computerized smaller objective telescopes. I wouldn't settle for anything smaller than 100mm objective refractor types.. I am satisfied with it.
4/14/2015 2:30:30 PM
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Pieter Beljaars, Hoeven
What are influences that make google sky maps unreliable... This I say because when I put my phone on my right sight the moon and Pluto appear. nice! but even so when I hold my phone on my left. Both outward looking off course
4/11/2015 3:48:11 AM
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Marilyn
This is a lovely sky-map. North is shown as at the top, while South is shown at the bottom. Why is East shown at the left, and West shown at the right sides of the sky-map?
I ask this because if you stand facing North, the West is always on your left, and the East is always on your right. Why should it be any different on this sky-map, if the view is facing towards the North?
Shouldn't it show West on the left side, and East on the right side?
4/10/2015 3:36:49 PM
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ColinS
I have SkyMap on my Windows phone it is superb, though my phone does not have a compass. I have just bought android tablet and cannot find an app that is anything like as good. Will you be bringing out a version for android, please!
2/1/2015 12:06:03 PM
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ulf thoren
Great sky map! It also runs on my Mac, which is nice. However, there it is drawn on a pitch black background, supposedly to imitate night sky. And giving good readability to the sky objects. But looking at instructions they are white on black background which makes the dark blue highlighted links etc unreadable. Is there a possibility to select other color?
1/19/2015 7:28:04 AM
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@Leticia
Thanks for asking!
You (and other users of this website) have my permission to include screenshots from this website under attribution terms
1/17/2015 9:49:18 PM
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Thoky
thank you for a very useful site!
1/16/2015 4:03:36 PM
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hannah
when will comet ison come
1/12/2015 6:15:01 PM
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johnkrebs
I liked Skymap, but I am having the same am having the same sun, moon, planet alignment issues as those mentioned by other users. Clearly there is something different about recent versions.
1/7/2015 3:56:54 AM
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Leticia Ferrer
Greeting Ciprian,
Thank you for this great online tool. With your permission, I'd like to include a screen grab of your sky chart over Hopkinsville at August 21, 2017 18:24 GMT, in a book I'm preparing to promote the August 21, 2017 Solar Eclipse.
I will of course attribute the map courtesy of Skypmaponline.net. May I have your permission? This is part of our effort to promote interest in the August 21, 2017 Solar Eclipse and in Astronomy.
You can contact me at eclipse lady@ferrercom.com.
Thank you,
Leticia
1/2/2015 3:17:57 PM
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Brian
Just found SkyMap...looks interesting.
However, when I align my view to North and South, East and West are reversed.
I am in the Southern hemisphere...using the Brisbane, Australia location.
I am an old bloke and not science educated.
What am I doing wrong?
(Windows 8)
10/9/2014 11:04:46 AM
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Jimmie-Jeff
Installed on win 8.1 laptop no touch screen. No toolbars, no zoom? How do I zoom out. Same features as free no additional features with paid version.
Please advise.
10/8/2014 6:52:09 PM
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claude Vandame
i have an Android phone, downloaded Skymap , does it need a compass in the phone or does it work with the help of the camera only ??
10/4/2014 3:17:00 PM
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admin
@Jon - The apps on windows phone and windows RT/ windows 8 are similar. The windows phone has a bit more features, while on a tablet you have a bigger screen. But, according to our experience, the phones have better sensors (compass and accelerometer).
Our apps have trial versions and free version and you can install them for free before deciding to buy or not.
9/23/2014 9:57:50 AM
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Jon
Hi,
I purchased your app for Windows Phone 8.1 and just recently bought a windows RT device. I was wondering if the app for Windows RT has any significant features that would make me buy it again for another device.
Thanks
Jon
9/22/2014 10:35:18 AM
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admin
@all - A few users complained about the recent changes. While they made the site look a little bit better, I agree that these changes didn't improve the functionality. Therefore, I've decided to revert back to the old menu and controls. I plan to get an improved functionality anyway in the future, and get a real functional HTML5 page (better map manipulation, better controls and menus, etc)
This site now shows distances to the stars in HIP catalog (over 100 thousand stars).
9/13/2014 2:09:11 PM
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admin
@michelle - you have to use the compass control (the little N nob), located to the left of the map in order to "rotate" the map in the direction you're looking at; we can see Ursa Major (Big Dipper) usually facing North and, by default what you see on this site without changing the config, is the sky as you can see facing South.
Click on the little circle around the compass control in order to change the direction of the map.
9/13/2014 2:04:33 PM
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Anh Tuan Nguyen
Hello, I want to translate your sky maps into Vietnamese. Can you accept my requst. If you accept, you can send me information to my email address. Thank you !
9/6/2014 7:33:59 PM
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michelle
Hi, my question is why is my map slightly off the mark, also the plough/big dipper is the wro g way around?
8/31/2014 2:19:38 PM
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admin
@all - I may rewrite the menu and date/time change based on users feedback. I'm also planning to write code to take advantage of GPU for HTML5 version of the map and get improved graphics as a result. Only if I had enough time for all these plans...
8/29/2014 7:41:26 PM
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admin
@Jan - you can click on the small circle around the compass image (on the left side of the map) in order to rotate the map to WNW or other directions.
8/29/2014 7:32:19 PM
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admin
@Victor - thanks for reporting that issue. I'll fix it. However, this sky map is accurate for the year interval 1900 - 2100 because is based on a present time star catalog.
8/29/2014 7:25:37 PM
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admin
@pico - I have no immediate plans to port SkyMap on Android... I'm not a windows phone only developer but porting the code on other platforms takes time and effort, and SkyMap, despite generating some revenue, it's not paying the bills. I have a regular job and I can't promise much.
I have ported the code on iOS in a partnership with Meade. There were discussions of porting the code on Android, but so far, I haven't done any progress.
@Usman - are you talking about SkyKey? Isn't that app working on your iPhone?
8/29/2014 7:06:11 PM
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admin
@John, we are a total of 2 developers of the windows phone app and I've personally implemented the code for "Select City" list. It's funny, nobody called me "geographically challenged" before:) Select City list came from a public domain list of cities with their corresponding GPS position. I didn't pick those cities by hand and, frankly, I was aware of Canberra being the capital city of Australia since I was a child (despite the fact that I haven't traveled yet to Australia). Now, because there's a request I'll consider adding Canberra to my list and have it there in the next release. Most app users actually take advantage of the auto-location feature.
8/29/2014 6:59:47 PM
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John
I have just purchased SkyMap.
I find it odd that Australia's capital city, Canberra, does not get a listing in the "Select City" list.
Are the app developers "geographically challenged"?
8/29/2014 6:35:38 AM
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Pico
I had this app on my Windows Nokia phone, which unfortunately died, picked up the Samsung Galaxy S5, great phone, but no app like Sky Map for it. The apps available for it are awful, cumbersome and just don't work. Any plans to develop Sky Map for android based phones?
8/16/2014 8:01:51 AM
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Usman
SkyMap is not working on my iphone5, can anybody help me out???
7/23/2014 1:39:33 PM
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Victor
The map breaks if you try to do any date before 01/01/1000..... That's frustrating. Can you fix that, please?
6/22/2014 4:13:21 PM
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Jan
We need to e able to rotate map so as to align map north with our seated or sanding north.
For example, my window bears NNW. Need to rotate map to compensate.
Simple code.
thanks
6/19/2014 7:58:20 PM
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jiffyzebra
Oops. I think I'm wrong. Never mind. I guess Saturn stays in one constellation about 2.5 years. I apologize. Looks like I'm the one who was confused. Must be too many vodka-and-orange juices last night. Sorry. Jonathan
6/7/2014 9:54:20 AM
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jiffyzebra
I apologize for my multiple comments. Wikipedia's "Saturn" article says: "It takes approximately 29.5 years for the planet to complete an entire circuit of the ecliptic against the background constellations of the zodiac." I notice researching online that there is a lot of confusion on many astrology websites such that Saturn is incorrectly believed to take 28 or 30 years to complete one revolution around the Zodiac when in fact it stays in one constellation continously for about 30 years before slowly shifting to the next one. Could there be a glitch in star map programs, similar to whatever is wrong with Skymaponline, contributing to this misconception? Jonathan
6/7/2014 9:34:44 AM
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jiffyzebra
Oops, I meant to say, "Sorry to inform you!" As regards changes from the old version, it used to be easier to quickly change dates/times, zoom in/out, go to print version, and back, whereas with recent changes, it seemed to get bogged down and freeze a lot, but today it seems better. However, the problem with Saturn's position is MUCH more worrisome! Jonathan
6/7/2014 8:09:23 AM
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jiffyzebraATyahooDOTcom
Good morning! Specificially, try June 7, 1964, 9:30 a.m., when Saturn should be in Leo, but Skymaponline shows Saturn in Aquarius, which is 180 degrees opposite on the zodiac, so there must be some MAJOR glitch in your program, so to inform you! Sincerely, Jonathan
6/7/2014 8:03:51 AM
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jiffyzebraATyahoodotcom
Good morning! Something is EXTREMELY FAULTY with your program! Saturn is so slow it stays 30 years in one constellation and only recently finally shifted from Virgo into Libra. But setting the date for, e.g., 1964, and Skymaponline shows Saturn in Aquarius, which is IMPOSSIBLE! Sincerely, Jonathan
6/7/2014 7:57:20 AM
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admin
@Klat - please see my comment on 1/14/14: "a sky map is different than a regular land map; the point of reference for a sky map is our position on earth and we see the map as we look down; a regular land map has a bird eye point of reference, as the land is seen from the air by a bird"
@Jonathan - sorry you don't like the last set of changes; I may implement more changes to improve the experience but you should explain what exactly you're missing from the old version
@Mikko - the compass sensors on some tablets are not great and require calibration - please make sure you rotate the tablet on all its axis with large movements
6/6/2014 10:54:54 PM
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Klat
When the direction 'NORTH' is at the top of the map...WHY then is the map direction 'WEST' on the 90 degree quadrant (3 o'clock) instead of at the CORRECT 270 degree (9 o'clock)???
Did the world's longitudes suddenly reverse or what exactly am I missing here?
6/1/2014 4:45:51 PM
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Jonathan
Used to be more useable until stupid changes.
5/19/2014 6:23:48 PM
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Mikko
I just downloaded Sky Map 1.1 for Windows RT. Same great looking eye candy as on my Windows Phone, but the Point to Sky feature is pointing 180 degrees off - if I hold the tablet to the south, the view is to the north, same with east vs. west! Using a Lumia 2520.
Anybody seen this on a Surface/Surface2 tablet?
5/19/2014 11:10:49 AM
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mike
Is it possible to add the an ISS tracker into the app?
5/19/2014 4:55:25 AM
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Simon Mbogle-Tceke
I had an astronomical event yesterday 05/10/2014 organized by the nearby Astronomical Society at Warren, Michigan-USA. It was interesting and instructive to learn from enthusiastic members.
5/11/2014 9:35:51 PM
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stlyrface
you need to add the Ecliptic line to the program. Otherwise how can users tell where the sun and planets rise and fall relative to the horizon.
4/28/2014 9:05:27 AM
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Jonathan
It used to be much easier to change the date and time.
4/6/2014 7:27:51 AM
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Gianc.
Sorry, the browser got a life by itself...
please delete the duplicate comments :-(
3/20/2014 8:02:13 AM
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Gianc.
Love the app: It has been the first one I installed on my WP8 Lumia 820!
Still, being a caffeine addict, I noticed how my shaking hands affect the app usability in moderate to high zooming mode in point to sky mode.
Is it possible to add the possibility to filter high frequency modes in pointing? While this may introduce a certain degree of lag when moving fast through the sky, usability will be GREATLY improved when pointing steady in a given direction in point to sky mode.
3/20/2014 3:50:26 AM
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admin
@mike - which app are you referring to? the website, SkyMap for windows phone or SkyKey for iPhone?
I like your suggestion but I'll probably start by updating the website. It's way easier and faster to update the website.
3/10/2014 7:27:46 PM
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admin
@Sergey - time means your local computer's time. That is converted to Greenwich time and used accordingly
@Inzar and @erin - I'll consider adding satellites but may take some time; my focus now is to improve the UI and eventually add more options (I've already started by changing the location and time dialogs)
3/8/2014 10:45:37 AM
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Gavin
This site is crazy :)
2/27/2014 8:49:38 PM
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mike
Can you add the exact position of the northern Center pole (ncp) or/and its Pendant, the southern Center pole im your apps? This would shorten the adjusting time of a telescope. Thank you.
2/26/2014 11:18:40 AM
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Inzar ul haq
can you add satlite
2/14/2014 6:59:40 AM
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Sergey
Good day.
Thank you for this very useful map. I would like to clarify one thing. What is meant by "time" in settings? Greenwich time? Local administrative time in the geographic point which is selected in settings? Local time of me as a user?
2/10/2014 3:16:38 AM
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Millicent
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2/6/2014 3:39:57 AM
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Dunyong Tan
I like this very useful site!
2/2/2014 8:06:12 PM
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erin
Can you add satellites and man made objects to the chart?
1/25/2014 12:29:23 PM
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Pharma599
Very nice site!
1/22/2014 5:52:51 PM
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admin
@Ben - sure you can print the sky map from this site.
You can use the "Printable Map" menu entry, too.
@Marek - use the "Time" menu on top of the main page - you can manage the time there
@Steve - please install the latest update - we provided app bar entry to disable the artwork due to popular request (click ... and select hide artwork)
@benoit - a sky map is different than a regular land map; the point of reference for a sky map is our position on earth and we see the map as we look down; a regular land map has a bird eye point of reference, as the land is seen from the air by a bird
1/14/2014 9:08:50 PM
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admin
@Ben - sure you can print the sky map from this site.
You can use the "Printable Map" menu entry, too.
@Marek - use the "Time" menu on top of the main page - you can manage the time there
@Steve - please install the latest update - we provided app bar entry to disable the artwork due to popular request (click ... and select hide artwork)
@benoit - a sky map is different than a regular land map; the point of reference for a sky map is our position on earth and we see the map as we look down; a regular land map has a bird eye point of reference, as the land is seen from the air by a bird
1/14/2014 9:08:11 PM
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BenGeronimo
Good day.
I am Ben Geronimo, a BS Astronomy Technology student here in the Philippines of the Rizal Technological University. I would like to ask a question. Would it be alright if I print a sky map here in your website? It will be used in our school publication for sky mapping in our country. If you would graciously permit me to do so, I would credit you and this website for the sourcing.
For feedback, I find your website very interesting and simple. It is easy to use and very convenient.
Thank you :)
1/14/2014 9:01:15 PM
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Natarajan Ganesan
I keep seeing the directions exactly reversed. Is there something I am missing?
1/5/2014 8:38:57 PM
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addam
I enjoy your app but I have a suggestion for the app could you add to the site when comets and meteorite showers are visible
12/28/2013 2:34:06 PM
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Marek
Very.... Very good software.
"Gunpoint" icon cannot switch to "compass menu". It can switch between quick settings, and zoom bar or nothing.
My wish is, that You could add another menu to manage time. Currently it is only in zoom menu, but I can add or subtract hour, not mins and days. And instead of 90, 45, 15... degree zoom, I suggest to change + - icons with zoom at half previous zoom. Eg. currently is 90 degree, after plus it switch to 45, next plus, switch 25, next 10, next 5... 2... 1.
12/24/2013 2:43:51 AM
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Steve
In the Windows Phone SkyMap app, is there a way to disable the artwork? Also, the app hasn't been updated since March 2012 - are there any plans for future development?
12/22/2013 7:23:48 PM
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benoit
I never understood why map always look the wrong way for me. Yours is the same and on top of that the sky "rotates" the wrong way over time. Yours go positive (counter clock wise) while when I look at the sky at night the sky appears to rotate negatively (clock wise). How should I interpret or look at your map?
12/11/2013 4:58:56 AM
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Anthony
I want to save this site in my browser's favourite list, with my location saved. Is it possible?
12/7/2013 7:47:23 AM
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admin
@wow - I've implemented only the option to hide the constellation names and not star or planet names. Thanks for the suggestion. I'll consider it for implementation.
@Dani - telrad circle sizes should be 4 degrees for the outer circle, 2 degrees for the middle circle, and 1/2 degree for the circle in the center.
12/4/2013 11:01:50 AM
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Dani
great site. I'm thinking to use it to determine sky positions (very dark fields needed) for technical measurements of our telescope. Therefore, I need to draw the FoV (in that case 4.5 degree diameter) - the telrad could be useful for this - however only when I know the size - what are the diameters of the different circles of the telrad?
thanks.
12/4/2013 4:28:05 AM
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Rosemarie
Thank you for providing this. It's very useful to check my identifications of stars during my nighttime walks with my dog. Now that I live where pollution (light and ugly other) is minimal, I'm re-learning my way in the night sky.
12/1/2013 3:09:19 AM
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wow
This site is wonderful. Thanks so much! One question- is there any way to hide all text on the map, even the planet and star names? Thanks!
11/29/2013 4:16:54 PM
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Paul
Very good app, but names fonts need to be bigger so does the planet sizes. Iam Using on the iPhone.
11/22/2013 9:33:37 AM
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admin
@oatmealface - please click on location (e.g. the default is Seattle, WA and change it to your location or some city nearby / Bidgeport, I assume). Then you can also change the time (e.g. Nob 14th, 8PM).
You'll see that the Moon is going to be visible (almost full ~ 97%) at that time and pretty high in the sky.
@anunnaki - sorry, I haven't included ISON or other comets in my map; it require extra match calculations and more important, time on my side. You see, I have a full job and I spend my time with my wife and daughter plus writing various software (phone apps, websites, etc). I was considering adding the comet in my map, but I can't make any promise.
@Joe Freaked_Out - assuming you live near San Diego and watch the sky during evenings, then the bright item is Venus (I found out that using my own map). Believe me, we can't see Venus here in Seattle because it's under the horizon.
I assume the map rotation, it's not very intuitive - I'll try to change it.
11/11/2013 11:05:07 PM
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Joe Freaked_Out
Chri_st! I just wanted to know what that bright item in the southwest portion of the sky was. A planet or a star. However, I've got to become a darn astronomer to read all this stuff and I just wanted to know ONE thing. I poked around on this stupid map for a long time and I STILL don't know what it is! Make it easy for SKY DUMMIES like me. I'm a computer programmer and a pilot so I'm not ignorant... but I AM ignorant when it comes to astronomy. Not my bag!
11/11/2013 6:44:57 PM
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Anunnaki
Where is ISON ?
11/10/2013 1:19:02 PM
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oatmealface
why is it that the ONE main object visible in the night sky can only be shown if it's visible AT THE CURRENT TIME? why can't i figure out if the stupid MOON will be visible at 8 pm on November 14th?
10/28/2013 12:28:14 PM
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Kylie
I like it a lot
10/26/2013 12:24:19 AM
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Marilyn Dayen
Looking at your skymap, it's really great, but when you're looking or travelling north, shouldn't east be on your right and west be on your left?
You have east labeled as west, and west labeled as east on the compass points on your skymap.
10/1/2013 5:17:07 AM
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admin
@Thomas - I'm sorry but we are not the publishers of our own Windows Phone app. Microsoft is in charge of that, the app is published through their own marketplace. If you use a different user account, then you should contact Microsoft and see if they can help. I've just written you a private email on this subject...
@lucella - galaxyIII is on Android and I assume you're using a different app (not one of mine)
@Dharmvir and cliff - you should look on a sky map in a reverse way - as if you're looking above (east is on left and west to right, opposed to other way found on a regular map)
9/25/2013 5:29:05 PM
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lucella
Don't know what I'm doing wrong but the moon and obvious constellations are not where I point my device. The moon is somewhere else. Not very trustworthy. Any ideas what's wrong? Using a galaxyIII.
9/21/2013 9:24:42 PM
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Thomas Burgess
I have emailed support because my Hotmail account was hacked and I lost my skymap purchased app. Can someone help?
9/20/2013 10:55:19 AM
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Dharmvir Singh
SkyMap installed on a Dell system running Windows 8 is showing incorrect directions. It shows north as sound and so on.
9/7/2013 12:48:06 PM
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cliff
just found your chart GREAT,Always been intreasted in the heavens.Question if iam looking East out of my porch what will the map orietion be?I have it set on the bottom of the map to East.Think I read something about this on comments page.Might help if on the instruction page this was mentioned.Once agin keep up the great work an I tank you for what you have given us to use!!!
8/13/2013 12:46:22 PM
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Pen
The'res nothing like the relief of finding what you're looking for.
8/6/2013 3:55:06 AM
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admin
@Monica - thanks
@dave - I think you're talking about the windows phone app. Yes, you can turn the constellations artworks off there: Please click ... on the bottom right of the screen and then select settings - display - (drag up) - constellation, show art off.
@P. Johnson - yes, that's a good suggestion. I'll consider it in a future update.
7/16/2013 10:57:42 AM
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P. Johnson
Hi, really love the app, but is it possible to have the RA value in Hours Mins Secs, rather than degrees? I'm finding it hard to get an exact setting. Thanks again.
7/9/2013 3:59:31 AM
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dave
I would like to turn off the artworks depicting the constellations! Can this be done?
7/5/2013 6:04:57 AM
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Monica
This is a wonderful website. You are very generous to have created this information for all to use. Just learning astronomy:this is perfect. Thank you so much!
6/26/2013 3:42:41 PM
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admin
@harry, are you using a Windows RT or a full Windows 8 computer? What kind of hardware do you have in that computer?
Have you rebooted the computer or reinstalled the app?
6/6/2013 9:39:46 PM
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harrysaber
I installed on Windows 8 but when I click on it nothing happens. Splash screen starts then application disappears
6/5/2013 9:37:45 AM
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psrosito@ig.com.br
despite of being so young,only 78 years old,I decided to learn a bit about astronomy... i,m still in the binoculars phase.Question is: how can I manage to watch the night sky of the city where I live, i.e., ARARAQUARA,state of são paulo, Brazil,coordinates -21.47.40 lat and -48.10.32 long., CEP 14.810.320?By the way; congratulations for the excellent piece of art.TKs for pleasant entertainment
5/23/2013 6:07:18 PM
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jagdish
wonderful work..please keep it up !
5/2/2013 7:56:25 AM
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mariosantos614@gmail.com
eu gostei de compartilhar aqui do brasil.
3/15/2013 9:05:18 AM
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admin
@Jim, we'll eventually add support for iPad (with full iPad resolution support)
3/10/2013 9:24:32 PM
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Jim S
How do I expand the view on the larger iPad screen?
3/5/2013 1:06:46 PM
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2/28/2013 4:33:16 PM
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admin
@Vaxy - yes, this site was under attack. I've fixed the problem. Thanks.
2/18/2013 12:44:10 PM
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Vaxy
The site has been listed as harmful with opera browser. Also on google is written "This site may harm your computer." Fix it please.
2/18/2013 1:29:23 AM
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Dean Rush
This is a great app. I'd like to be able to add comet/asteroid ephemeris. Do you have any plans to add this capability to Sky Map WP?
2/17/2013 7:59:05 PM
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Irl Smith
It would be nice to have the option of showing the Ecliptic.
2/10/2013 2:20:35 PM
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admin
@Jesse, thanks for your suggestion. I know about the ascom drivers but there are some restrictions for applications on marketplace. As a telescope owner with a passion for astro-photography, I understand quite well your request. There was not possible to be done on windows phones but, the stroy may be different on tablets.
@maryjane - we use sky maps (planispheres) to locate objects in the sky. By using telescopes we can see deep space objects located millions of light years away from us. The science of astronomy is based on usage of sky maps. Please read "Astronomy Tutorial" on this site for more information.
2/2/2013 9:07:24 AM
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Jesse Andreasen
It would be soooooo awesome if you were able to integrate ascom support for communicating with telescopes or support for NexStar from Celestron. This app, on a tablet with long battery life, able to drive a CGEM mount would be perfect!
1/28/2013 9:19:08 PM
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maryjane sumay
how to map the sky?
why do we need map the sky?
how to locate constellation at the night sky?
1/26/2013 1:32:42 AM
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admin
@Frodo, you're correct we haven't got the chance to implement settings serialization. But this is on our list for one of the next releases.
1/13/2013 9:03:06 PM
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Frodo
The Windows 8 version doesn't save the customisation once we exit the program. Very annoying to have to do it every time we use SkyMap. Otherwize, very good program for the price!
1/13/2013 12:10:56 AM
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aysel
skyaçilmasini rica ederim
1/8/2013 5:57:26 AM
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Daniel James Freburg
26 December 2012
Hello!
I downloaded the SkyMap Windows 8. It seems to be a great computer App.
D.J.F.
12/26/2012 4:32:19 AM
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admin
@Coleman - search for "M45"
12/23/2012 9:15:47 AM
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Coleman Waite
pleiades was not found? /Seven Sisters?
12/22/2012 3:35:55 PM
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admin
@PuzzledLass - you have a valid question. But this is a sky map and it shows the sky as seen from Earth; so the map doesn't show Earth because while we're standing on it, we can't see it in the sky.
@Yusof - yes, the majority of star names are of Arab origin. According to wikipedia, "In Western astronomy, most of the accepted star names are Arabic, a few are Greek and some are of unknown origin. Typically only bright stars have names". The orgin of many of our star names is from "Book of Fixed Stars" written around 964 by the astronomer Abd al-Rahman al-Sufi (known as Azophi in Europe).
12/18/2012 9:07:42 PM
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PuzzledLass
Hi...When i visit your sky map i can type in the names of the planets as follows Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune and Pluto....very strangely (to me at least) if i type in Earth it says search for Earth not found! I would assume as you can view other planets in our solar system that we should also be able to view Earth. Is there a reason why your sky map is saying its not there?
12/17/2012 12:49:26 PM
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yusof.said@yahoo.com
I always got fascinated watching stars when I am at sea fishing at night. Your Star Map helps me to recognize Orion , Jupiter, Sirius, Al dabaran and few others. And i was suprised to note that many of the names are of Arabic origins. I hope to understand the movement of the stars in every month of the year. Thanks
12/16/2012 3:19:38 PM
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admin
The installation of our application is not under our direct control.
All applications approved on Microsoft markeplace are going through a testing process (during which the installation of the app is validated). I guess the installation of the app fails due to an issue on your phone.
I would suggest to try this:
- if you have a trial version of our app, please uninstall it
- restart your phone (power phone by pressing the off button for a couple of seconds)
- make sure you try to install it while using a different internet connection (wifi or regular data plan is you have one)
12/4/2012 8:18:47 PM
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Rodney Jones
Hello!! Hey, your Skymap app will not install. I'm getting the attention required message over and over.. Can you guys please look into this problem as soon as you get a chance?? Thanks
BTW.. Your other apps installed just fine, and great work! :D
12/3/2012 10:52:19 PM
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John H. Cato, jr, R.A.
It would be nice to have a 'slider' adjustment for apparent magnitude just like the zoom function. That way, one could drop off some of the weaker stars and more clearly see objects of their interest. Discreet steps (if fine enough) would work, but a continuous slider would be even nicer. Nice site, BTW.
-- john.
10/22/2012 9:38:06 PM
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Stephen Felce
Thanks Admin. Look forward to being able to save the map parameters but, in the meantime a little bit extra exercise for my wrist will do no harm!
10/18/2012 4:04:09 AM
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admin
Please ignore the links sent by spammers. I'm actively deleting the spammers comments here.
I have the option of either:
- use captachas
- denied any posting of a link
- deny comments from people spamming this comments section
- other methods (approvals, etc)
Stephen, I understand you want to save the map parameters somehow for further use. I think that's a great suggestion and I'll implement it in the future.
10/17/2012 9:44:04 AM
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Stephen Felce
I use the compass exactly as you say. Actually, it is a little awkward and difficult to adjust accurately, but never mind.
But that is not the point. Having got the view once that I want, I do not want to keep having to readjust to it every time!
Saving and using the link as you say freezes the view and disables all the features. Not really useful as you cannot even click on a star for more info, let alone get at the options.
Not sure who horny is talking to, but the link in his message is unobtainable on my PC and heaven knows what he is trying to say, if anything.
10/17/2012 4:07:38 AM
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admin
Hello Stephen. I'll try to answer your questions.
I seldom have people providing feedback longer than 100 characters. So, thank you - splitting your message in 2 sections is the right decision.
Have you tried to rotate the map using the compass rose on the left of the map? There is a knob there (N for North) - if you drag it, then the map will rotate - so that way you can have E on the bottom of the map (useful if you're facing east).
You can save a map for future reference. Just click on Share and copy/save that link.
Flip functionality is there for people using this map with telescopes - the image, as seen thgough telescopes, is often reversed due to the mirrors in the telescopes.
I've noted your suggestions about SE, NE, 45° grid, etc. I hope I can get some spare time soon to push an update for this website.
10/16/2012 5:16:17 PM
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Stephen Felce
Hi Admin, Thanks for getting back. I do hope you can address all my points.
I am using the online version, so far with my naked eyes and can see about 45° to either side ie. NE and SE when facing E through my window. I imagine a 90° span would be about as much as one could take in unaided. I have a good pair of 8 x 40 binoculars and a solid tripod but so far have not used them.
[Having seen Saturn, its moons and the rings side on from the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona and even then just as blurred spots and a smudge for the latter cannot see the point in buying a telescope which would be much inferior and less sharp!]
10/16/2012 3:27:49 PM
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admin
Hello Stephen, are you talking about the SkyMap for Windows Phone or SkyMapOnline - the online app?
Do you use the app with when looking at the sky through a telescope or binoculars?
10/16/2012 8:35:40 AM
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Stephen Felce
Part 2 of 2
3)The grid you get with Azgrid is useless because it split at the wrong points, that is at 30° and 60°, neither of which correspond with the compass. Instead, I would have expected the grid to show at 45° either side, NE and SE from E etc. [But in any case, when viewing at a larger scale the letters NE and SE as well as E would be much better than the grid because not enough of the grid would show to be any real help.]
4) If I click and drag the night sky, sometimes it will not stop unless I do a reset or something else that makes me lose my position and the scale entirely. That is particularly annoying when it happens, which is quite often.
And a suggestion – having set my image scale etc, I would like to be able to save all of that so next time I start up, there it is just as before!
Regards,
Stephen
10/15/2012 12:00:59 PM
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Stephen Felce
Part 1 of 2 parts because you limit me too 100 characters!
Hi - Your application to view the night sky is very clear, much better on screen than I have seen elsewhere and I look forward to instructions and, hopefully, improvements as regards the following:
I do find these things rather annoying:
1) Taking my situation as the example, the window in my home I view the sky for real faces east, so I would expect to be able to identify where on "SKY MAP" SW and SE are located. You show an "E" but why not also "SW" and "SE"? That, viewing "SKY MAP" a corresponding scale, one would be able to figure out where they are much more easily. At that scale, it is impossible to tell where "SW" and "SE" would be.
2) If I use “Flip Vertical” I still get “E” at the bottom but the image has changed. The actual sky has not, so what on earth is this for, no pun intended?
10/15/2012 12:00:29 PM
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admin
@Rgluvqnm - Please add comments related to the content of this website and not something that seems random and not so usefull to other users.
@Avqyvvse - thanks
9/7/2012 10:47:21 PM
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Avqyvvse
Cool site goodluck :)
9/4/2012 11:22:08 AM
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admin
@Martin A Grillo - Thanks. Can you provide me more details about the problems on map time indicator for Caracas?
@j.kobane - I'm not sure what you mean by "camera scanner". Why do you need a camera scanner inside the Sky Map application?
8/26/2012 1:59:15 AM
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j.kobane
No camera scanner. I'm disappointed
8/17/2012 11:07:24 AM
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Martin A Grillo
Love your work. I often recommend the site.
However, think you're having problems with MAP TIME INDICATOR (at least for Caracas)
Yours, Martin
8/12/2012 10:48:45 PM
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Harry McBride
I seldom comment on apps that I buy but occassionally an app is such value for money that I feel it is only right to congratulate the designers. It is just approaching midnight here and I have spent the last 30 minutes using version 2.3 onmy Lumina 800 to view the night sky. I have probably learnt more in the last 30 mins than I have in the last 30 years. The link to wikipeadia is excellent as I was able to use Wifi to get information on each object that I identified. Well done on an excellent app.
7/28/2012 4:00:20 PM
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admin
@sf - this feature is not implemented
thank you for the suggestion - I may implement it in the future
7/1/2012 10:34:47 AM
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sf
How do I enter search for a star using the Bayer letter designation? kappa Hya, for instance. I've tried this on both the web version, and on the WP7 version, but search only seems to resolve "named" stars, like Arcturus.
6/30/2012 2:39:41 PM
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admin
The paid SkyMap app for windows phone has no ads.
There are 2 apps on marketplace: SkyMap and SkyMap Free, but only SkyMap has a paid version. If you buy SkyMap (full version) from SkyMap Free, please make sure that you exit SkyMap Free and start SkyMap (full version).
For people on western USA and Japan - enjoy the solar eclipse today!
5/20/2012 5:33:02 PM
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Geoff
Do the adverts disappear on the full paid version? It's not clear from any of the product descriptions whether they stay or go. thanks.
5/16/2012 2:29:27 AM
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mg
Just for clarification... if I purchase the paid version of the app, the ad goes away, yes?
5/7/2012 12:44:45 PM
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Arif Jamil
Thank you for adjusting the location of Lahore as per my request.
Kindest regards
5/5/2012 12:09:12 PM
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admin
@keith
There's a help inside the windows phone application.
We'll consider the idea to publish the same help on a website. Thanks for the suggestion.
@dreamleader
the phone camera lens are quite small and limited during night time. They pick way too less light and we can't really see stars using the phone camera. We may consider adding a camera overlay but we're still debating about the priority of this feature.
Meanwhile, we spend some time and energy in the translation of the app in different languages.
@dugan
I'm not sure what you mean - big dipper (asterism in Ursa Major) will look upside down if it shows on the map above the zenith. You may need to rotate the map to get it right.
@jimmmie
Our planet is not displayed on the SkyMap. SkyMap shows the sky as we see it from Earth.
4/19/2012 10:34:33 PM
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keith fielder
Love the app but frustratingly can't read some of the Skymap pages on my nokia lumia phone. Is there a webpage with explanations of the phone icons and any other pages that can be printed out on my PC for easier reading.?
I would love to learn how to use it properly and have paid for the full version.
thanks
keith
4/19/2012 4:10:08 AM
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Dreamleader
Great App on WP7. Is it possible to realize ist via virtual reality, too??? You can point to sky and see the real sky through the camera lens with a skymap overlay???
4/16/2012 2:13:41 PM
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Dugan
This is probably a very un-educated query but when I look at the sky map of the night sky above Seattle it shows the big dipper upright when in fact it is upside down. I like the map, it is easy to use but this is perplexing to me.
4/12/2012 10:20:01 PM
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jimmie
just wonder ,where is situted our planet?
4/5/2012 2:38:27 PM
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chari.kvs
hello freinds haw ru ilove my madhar ! butefull world
3/30/2012 9:24:14 AM
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chari.kvs.india.knr
iam new jonig hello ! frinds iam chari location amazing sky map iam happy pleare tekk ker
3/30/2012 9:15:35 AM
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Bev, Australia
I am trying to find out where Venus is in the Southern Hemisphere. I think I know, but it is supposed to be quite close to another planet just now? grandmebeverley@yahoo.com.au
3/25/2012 2:23:36 AM
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admin
Hello Arif,
I've fixed the location list according to your request.
3/15/2012 8:59:24 PM
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MaryJo - Indianapolis, IN
Really helpful for checking out Mars! I've also used before, so thanks for an easy, useful tool.
3/7/2012 12:25:09 AM
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Roger
How do I setup a manual location in the southern hemisphere?
3/4/2012 9:21:08 AM
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Arif Jamil
Dear Admin :
:MY REQUEST AS ON 12 April,2011:
"In the Location list placement of 'Lahore,Pakistan' is not at proper alphabetical position.Kindly readjust its position in the list of locations.
Thank you."
12/4/2011 6:28:37 AM
: YOUR REPLY AS ON 12 MAY,2011:
"Arif, I'll fix the position for Lahore in the list. Thanks for pointing out that mistake."
:::::: IMPLEMENTATION STILL AWAITED :::::::
Regards
2/23/2012 7:13:15 AM
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Vimarsh Jani
Thank you very much! It is simple, interactive, free and amazing!
2/17/2012 6:25:22 AM
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Jim C Auburn WA
Found you through Google. Great website as it takes the guess work out of explaining to grandchildren or others what they are seeing in the sky. Thank you for your effort.
2/13/2012 12:00:02 PM
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dennis
<url>http://dennisssblegh.com|dennis</url>
hi
love your site!
1/30/2012 4:46:46 PM
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kugang
AMAZING.!
faBULOUS.
BONGGANG_BONGGA BOBG2
1/16/2012 8:45:20 PM
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warren.....
WOW....... IT'S SO NICE._+!
VERY WELL
1/16/2012 8:43:44 PM
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Michael Corp, Sr.
Very Usable ! Very well done. A great seervice to anyone who is interested ! Thanks !
1/13/2012 11:55:41 AM
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Jay
How do I use this app to find things in a telescope. I just ordered an Orion XT8 with EZ finder reflex sight. Is that the same as the telrad. What does the telrad symbol signify in the app. I am trying your app on my Win7 phone and am hoping that it will assist me in the field. Thank you for any input.
1/6/2012 3:35:12 PM
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admin
Happy New Year!
Ok, I'll make these changes. Thanks.
1/4/2012 3:45:24 PM
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Arif Jamil
I endorse the Sofia's suggestion.
12/28/2011 9:28:08 AM
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Sofia W
Might I suggest having the planets in a different color than the bright stars? They are quite different, and it would be nice to be able to quickly see what planets are up.
12/27/2011 12:06:42 PM
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Arif Jamil
Thank you for considering my request. God bless you !
12/8/2011 8:49:42 AM
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admin
Michael, we have no control over marketplace - that's totally under Microsoft's control. And don't even get me started how much trouble we had in order to create our own developer account.
Martin, thanks.
Robert, you are right - you can divide by 15 (360 / 24) in order to get a rough value.
Arif, I'll fix the position for Lahore in the list. Thanks for pointing out that mistake.
12/5/2011 11:40:36 AM
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Arif Jamil
In the Location list placement of 'Lahore,Pakistan' is not at proper alphabetical position.Kindly readjust its position in the list of locations.
Thank you.
12/4/2011 6:28:37 AM
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Robert Dagenais
REturning to astronomy after a long abscence. I was confused by the use of degrees for Right ascension vs. hours & minutes. Can I just divide by fifteen to get a rough equivalence?
Thanks.
12/1/2011 4:50:50 AM
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Martin A. Grillo
This site is a wonderful experience. I wanted to know about what I saw in the sky...now I know!, and that´s only a small part of what you have offered me.
THANKS!!!
From Caracas-Venezuela; yours.
11/27/2011 4:43:34 PM
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Michael Chambers
Hi there! I love your app, and look forward to getting a lot of good use out of it. I'm having trouble purchasing the full version however. I have an account set up correctly on the Microsoft Zune website, and all the credit card information is correct and double-checked. When I try to upgrade to the full version through the app though, I'm told there is no credit card on file, but it I try to reenter it, again through the app, I'm told it already exists on my account. Who is making this so difficult? Is it you guys or Microsoft, and why?
11/26/2011 10:31:01 PM
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Arif Jamil
I welcome you back. I got worried about your long absence. For the time being there are no issues, but your presence here is delighting for me. Thank you!
11/22/2011 9:42:24 AM
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admin
Hello, Arif. The hosting of this webserver was quite reliable during the last year, but it's possible that they had some problems. Please let me know if you encounter any more issues.
11/22/2011 12:10:25 AM
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ARIF JAMIL
Has this service been stopped ?
11/14/2011 6:00:04 AM
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Ronald Gardner
I purchased your full version and I am very happy with it! Now the purpose for my message, I think it would be very beneficial for your "app" to be listed in a search for "astronomy". Currently it does not appear in the search results.
10/31/2011 3:35:27 PM
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Arif Jamil
Hello ! how are u Mr. Admin !
10/26/2011 7:22:26 AM
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Kari
My Skymap program was from year -95, running on Win3.5 and written by Chris Marriott.
10/20/2011 2:21:32 PM
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Wesley Harden
Thank you for all of the great work and all the time put into it. I can't say thank you enough. :) I will share this with my family :)
10/18/2011 10:17:11 PM
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Arif Jamil Siddiqi
Dear Administrator :
Thank you for consideration. I think let it go as it is. No problem !
Also,I am thankful to you for your kind advice regarding the IP address. I am so obliged. We would remain in touch on this platform and I would try to learn from you in the field.
Warmest regards
10/18/2011 8:04:12 AM
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admin
@Arif, 33.65, 73.07 is in Islamabad and not Lahore (I've checked that using maps.google.com). So, I'm confused. Do you want any more changes or are you happy with the current data on my website?
Also, please do not post IPs or exact GPS locations as long as they are not needed.
10/17/2011 8:43:31 PM
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admin
@Kari - I'm not sure who was producing that SkyMap v3.0 application you were using in the past. What was the platform you were using it on (PC with Windows, Windows Mobile 6 or something else)?
Star density and removal of deep sky objects... Yes, I'll consider to add them as options on the website. Thanks for the suggestion. Keeping track of the time automatically on the website app is a little bit more difficult (and that's why there is a Time Now button which can be used for that purpose)
Our windows phone 7.5 app already has these features.
10/17/2011 2:42:17 PM
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admin
@Mato - please take a look at http://skymaponline.net/wp7.aspx
We're are really sorry for this glitch in v2.0. And we know about that calibration problem and we have a fix pending acceptance on marketplace (we hope it will be accepted and available on marketplace this week).
In order to work around this issue users have to click Done, in that dialog, and restart the calibration by using the calibration button in the sensors bar (or disabling and re-enabling the point to sky feature).
10/17/2011 2:33:47 PM
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Kari
I had some years ago program Skymap version 3.0. It's not any more working in Win7. There were some features in the program, which were very useful and I hope they will be available also in this program
- ability to add and to reduce the brightness of the sky, and in such a way to make visible only brightest stars seen with the naked eye
- opportunity to put the time flow into automatically e.g. day at a time in a few seconds and keep track of changes to skymap
- ability to remove deep sky objects
10/17/2011 7:46:27 AM
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Arif Jamil Siddiqi
The coordinates of my location (Lahore, Pakistan) is as follows :
Latitude : 33.65 Longitude : 73.07
Submitted for correction, if necessary.
THANK YOU & KINDEST REGARDS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IN RESPONSE TO :
admin
You're welcome, Arif. I've added Lahore with the coordinates provided by you. To be fair, those coordinated do not match the center of Lahore, but they are a bit SSW from the center (and they match to Kot Araian). However, the distance is small enough (aprox 35km) and makes no difference for a skymap.
10/16/2011 6:46:27 PM
10/17/2011 6:49:59 AM
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Arif Jamil Siddiqi
Dear Admin :
I am highly grateful. I am really impressed by your prompt consideration and implementation. Its really really great and highly commendable. As a matter of fact, I could not imagine your such a high degree of alertness and steadfastness. EXCELLENT! [100 out of 100 marks for you]
THANKS.
Kindest regards
10/17/2011 2:19:58 AM
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Mato
Hello, Today I upgraded SkyMap Trial from MarketPlace. Now when I start application, it shows start screen with stars, bottom toolbar, advertisment and app exits. A am able to click to About menu and there is version 2.0 trial.
Please help.
This app is really cool.
10/17/2011 2:10:57 AM
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admin
You're welcome, Arif. I've added Lahore with the coordinates provided by you. To be fair, those coordinated do not match the center of Lahore, but they are a bit SSW from the center (and they match to Kot Araian). However, the distance is small enough (aprox 35km) and makes no difference for a skymap.
10/16/2011 6:46:27 PM
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Arif Jamil Siddiqi
I am grateful. Thats great of you ! THANK YOU.
It would be a great gesture on your part if you could also add Lahore,Pakistan to the list. I live in Lahore and use your website from there. Latitude : 31.34 Longitude :74.22 for Lahore.
THANKS
10/16/2011 2:43:57 AM
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admin
Arif, I've added Islamabad and Karachi to that list. Thanks.
10/15/2011 11:38:00 PM
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admin
Hello, Arif. Thanks for the suggestion - I'll add Islamabad and Karachi to my list. I'll also consider the personal location suggestion, too.
10/15/2011 11:17:12 PM
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Arif Jamil Siddiqi
There should be a provision for saving the 'Personal Location' by the user. It would be convenient for the user of any unlisted location to approach the sky map any time.
Thank you.
10/15/2011 10:46:49 PM
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Arif Jamil Siddiqi
I must appreciate the excellence of the website. However, I want to point out that the list of locations does not contain any location for Pakistan whereas there are two for India viz. New Dehli & Bombay). At least one location for Pakistan may also kindly be included in the list (Islamabad or Karachi).
Looking forward to consideration.
10/15/2011 10:38:42 PM
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admin
Thanks, Kirk. And I'm glad it works well for you (and other people in Australia :)). I was already scratching my head why it should behave differently there.
10/7/2011 9:26:42 AM
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Kirk
You wouldn't read about it. After recalibrating and trying again, the cardinals are correct in portrait mode above and below horizon. In landscape mode they now appear correct above the horizon (most usefully) but inverted below the horizon.
The phone, BTW, is an HTC Mozart. I can still send you an e-mail if you with.
Thanks Ciprian.
Kirk
10/7/2011 1:31:06 AM
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admin
Kirk, can you try landscape mode, pointing down (under horizon line)? Does that points in the right cardinal direction for you?
I really appreciate your help.
10/7/2011 12:44:59 AM
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Kirk
Excellent. I look forward to it; been waiting for Microsoft to release this functionality for ages :-)
Re the portrait orientation pointing up, above the horizon - yes, this is how I initially tested.
BTW, sorry about the multiple post. Refreshed the browser page mistakenly
10/7/2011 12:40:37 AM
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admin
Kirk, thank you for letting us know about the issue in Australia. Yes, unfortunatelly we didn't test the app in southern hemisphere - but we'll fix this issue as soon as possible (we'll try to release the next update to marketplace in a few days).
Do you see this issue when you're using the phone in portrait orientation pointing up, above the horizon line?
10/7/2011 12:37:32 AM
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Kirk
Just updated to the version with compass support and calibrated fine. However, the cardinal directions are inverted from the direction I'm actually pointing - compass is telling me I'm pointing South and the map as such when I'm actually facing north (holding phone in the normal orientation). I have played with the 'map orientation' to no avail. Assuming it must be a northern vs southern hemisphere issue since I'm assuming you're in the northern - I'm in Australia. Still, it might just be a user issue :-) Any suggestions?
10/7/2011 12:00:49 AM
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admin
SkyMap v1.5 for windows phone v7.5 (mango), with compass support, is available for download on marketplace.
From our experience, the compass calibration may take quite a while especially when done the first time. Take your time, shake the phone well, have patience and it will eventually get calibrated. Also, if you can't get it calibrated first time, a phone shutdown/restart may help.
10/6/2011 11:20:51 AM
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Petrica
Beneficiez de multe nopti senine si urmaresc cerul instelat dupa ce consult aceasta harta. Imi place sa gasesc, printre stele, planetele care-si parcurg linistite drumul eliptic. Admir in fiecare seara galaxia vecina Andromeda.
10/2/2011 11:38:36 AM
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admin
SkyMap v1.5 for windows phone v7.5 (mango) was released to marketplace yesterday (Oct 1st) and is pending Microsoft's certification. This version has the compass integration (full point to sky feature).
10/2/2011 9:41:45 AM
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admin
@Baz - the site has London in the list of cities in the Location combo box; I assume the confusion here is created by the Search text box which is used for sky objects. So I'll add a label to that search box to make it clear.
@AnthonyS - yes, the SDK was available but the driver for compass API became available only this week (after the official Mango release). So we're working to release 2 Mango editions very soon: v1.5, targeted to be released for certification this weekend, will include a full point to sky feature (assuming you have a windows phone with Mango and compass drivers) and v2.0 - soon after - with a new map rendering approach (including Milky Way and contellation artworks)
@Maurie - great suggestion, I'm going to add telrad circles on the "printable map" view
@all - thank you for all your feedback. It's greatly appreciated!
9/30/2011 9:22:14 PM
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Maurie
Awesome site! Very well put together. I've shared your link on astronomyforum.net. Hope you don't mind. ;)
Could you make the telrad circles print on the "printable map" view? That would be a handy feature.
Thanks,
Maurie
9/29/2011 4:56:08 PM
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AnthonyS
The Windows Phone 7 app works well, but I was wondering when the Mango edition was going to be released. The SDK has been available for a while now, and I'm really looking forward to being able to use Point-to-Sky with a working compass.
9/27/2011 8:59:20 PM
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elozom
C/2010 X1 elenin
9/26/2011 8:42:28 PM
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DaveJazz
Finally! A useable Internet Star Map!!! Nice work and Thank You.
9/26/2011 4:06:32 AM
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Baz
If you don't know where London is - how can you find the stars!!!
9/25/2011 1:27:13 PM
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admin
the moon phase can be determined by clicking on the moon - it provides moon phase information (e.g. 0% is new moon while 100% is full moon)
I'm not sure if the request implies a graphical display of the moon phase (which is also possible but it requires some work)
8/29/2011 2:08:37 PM
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Smain
Hi.
It very practical and easy map to use for any location.
It will be better if we can see the moon phases.
Congartulation
8/24/2011 3:03:04 AM
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admin
Pluto was added to this website.
SkyMap wp7 applications will get Pluto in the next update (probably during the next 1-2 weeks).
7/14/2011 7:21:35 PM
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admin
Just a quick note about our SkyMap for windows phone applications.
People can buy the full version of SkyMap from inside SkyMap Free (for $1.29). Please note there are 2 apps: SkyMap and SkyMap Free. If you buy SkyMap from inside SkyMap Free, you have to exit SkyMap Free and start using the other app (SkyMap) in order to see no ads and get all unlocked features.
7/12/2011 11:16:33 AM
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Ed
Great news! Thank you very much this will make it the best skymap app out there and I'll definitely be buying it.
7/3/2011 2:24:15 AM
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admin
Well, Pluto is not considered a planet anymore (but a dwarf planet instead). And frankly, a medium size telescope can't really help us to find Pluto (due to Pluto being so dim).
Anyway, I understand there are people interested in the position of Pluto, and I've decided that I'm going to add Pluto to both my website and phone apps.
Daily/monthly maps of the sky can be obtained on this site by changing the map time (see the map menu).
7/3/2011 12:13:11 AM
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Ed
Where is pluto on the list of objects to find in the sky? I'm a plutophile and this is really disappointing.
6/28/2011 12:23:19 PM
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teo
i"like to have mounthly and daily map of the sky to be able to know what i see in the night sky if you please inform...
6/23/2011 7:46:09 AM
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admin
J, you're right - higher (magnitude) numbers corespond to dimmer objects. For example, Vega is magnitude 0, Deneb aprox 1 while Polaris is 2. In a city with medium light polution, we can see stars up to magnitude 4, while in a rural area with very low light polution, we can see stars up to magnitude 6. By using small/medium telescopes or binoculars we can see more stars - let's say up to magnitude 8 - 12 (depending on what we use).
Also, for windows phone users - please try our SkyMap application (for free). We've submitted to marketplace a new update (v1.2) and included new features like map rotation, a beta point to sky and astronomy picture of the day. Enjoy!
5/24/2011 12:38:29 AM
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J
Found this quick useful info for beginners: On the astronomers' scale, larger numbers mean dimmer objects. Negative numbers are reserved for the brightest objects. i.e Jupiter is around -1.89 whereas say Castor is around 1.89
Sorry if this has been mentioned somewhere else in the website.
5/23/2011 7:38:33 PM
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admin
Kevin, assuming I understand your question, yes, you can include the sky charts generated by this website anywhere you want as long as you mention the source. Thanks.
5/18/2011 12:06:19 AM
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R. Kevin Mooney
May we reproduce a Sky MAP FOR A PAPER THAT WILL BE PUBLISHED BUT NEVER SOLD?
THE PAPER WAS WRITTEN BY MY COLLEAGUE WILLIAM S. DAVIS
DOWN LOAD HIS NAME --- OR THE TITLE THE UNIVERSAL SOLVENT
5/8/2011 4:23:27 PM
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R. KEVIN MOONEY
IT'S A WONDERFUL WAY TO LEARN. I'M NEW TO ASTRONOMY.
REGARES, Kevin Mooney Fort Worth TX.
5/8/2011 4:22:18 PM
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admin
Today it's the aniversary of 50 years since Yuri Gagarin became the first human getting into the outer space.
50 years is a lot of time (half of century) and we still barely have only few people in the lower Earth orbit. We can't even send people back to the Moon despite the fact that our technology seems way more advanced.
Let's just hope that the commercial interest will spark improvements in space exploration.
4/12/2011 10:53:08 AM
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admin
Pierre, thanks for your comments.
And yes, I was thinking about spending some time with ASCOM drivers. Your suggestion is great - I'll definetly like to implement it but it may take a while to make it work and release it. Porting ASCOM drivers on windows phone platform seems pretty challenging.
4/8/2011 10:10:24 PM
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Pierre Stromberg
I recently purchased SkyMap for WP7 and I was very impressed. Very snappy performance. For future releases, do you have any plans to provide any ASCOM support so that it can remotely drive EQ6 type mounts through EQDIR? Thanks again.
Pierre
4/7/2011 8:03:58 PM
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KEEFER KAI
THANK YOU FOR SKY MAP. JUST GOT TELESCOPE, N WE GO2C STARS@PARK@FLORIDA:)) BEGGINER. IF U HAV ANY INFO, BOOK, DVD ETC.4KIDS...LET ME KNO...THANX!! KEEFER LIKES ORION,BIG DIPPER, JUPITER, MILKYWAY, BLACK HOLE, PLUTO... IF U HAV ANY GOOD PIC, LET ME KNO... KEEFERKAI@YAHOO.COM
THANX...:))))))))))))))))) GOD BLESS:))
3/19/2011 9:18:54 AM
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admin
ivie, yes, we can talk about your request - please send me a private email (ciprianboboc @ gmail . com)
3/18/2011 12:42:29 AM
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ivie
I like your skymap online. is it anyways I could embed it in mt astronomy blog ? thank you.
3/17/2011 11:34:39 PM
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admin
We've just published this FREE game for Windows Phone 7: Memory Bubbles
If you have a Windows Phone 7 and want to train your memory or just enjoy popping bubbles, please give it a try.
3/17/2011 12:36:41 AM
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admin
Dave, congratulations on your phone.
I've sent a private email to you. Our SkyMap for Windows Phone 7 describes a few of the functionalities of our application.
Here are a few basic steps to use with our app:
- drag the map (click on the map and drag the finger on the screen)
- zoom the map (use + or - buttons on the bottom of the map or use pich gesture - drag 2 fingers at the same time in opposite direction on the map)
- rotate the map by using the compass bar (click ... on app bar and rotate left or rotate right to change perspective)
- change map settings (by default the map will show how the sky looks at the location provided by the phone's GPS at current time) - these are customizable settings (go to app bar, click on ... and then pick settings)
- click on any star to get information
- use search function
- etc
And do not hesitate to send us more feedback.
We're currently working on the new release of this application - more features will be delivered pretty soon!
3/16/2011 8:16:53 PM
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Dave W
Recently purchased a LG Quatum (C900) from AT&T Yesterday I (think I Hope I did) loaded you "Sky Map" on my phone Now all I need is a set of instructions to use it ( I am not to savy in computerize I am a senior cetinse) Need all the help I can get I belive yor app is very worthwhile having I am a amuetur astronogler
3/16/2011 4:32:46 PM
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admin
Steven, thanks for your comment. "Flip the map" functionality will be in our first application update, which we plan to release this month.
There were other people asking for the same functionality and I've already implemented on the website.
"Flip the map" is also useful when people are looking through telescopes (the sky image seen in a telescope is often fliped due to lens and mirrors used by telescopes).
Adding sattelites and location of space station is a good suggestion and we'll keep on this our list for future releases.
3/4/2011 12:32:52 PM
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Steven R.
I like this app! I would like the addition of the location of the space station and the ability to "reverse" the screen. In other words, I need to hold the phone up to the sky to get its screen to match the sky, if it could be "mirrored" then I can match the stars with it held down, do I make my point clear?
Thanks
2/28/2011 7:35:35 AM
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admin
Sirius, it's not our goal to make Windows Phone 7 sky map application "work like" any other sky map application produced by a different company. While there are some similar expectations for any (sky) mapping application, there will always be differences between various applications and there will be limitations imposed by the platform where the application is running. For example, Windows Phones have compass hardware but there is no API to allow the applications to actually use the compass (and for that reason, no sky map application on Windows Phone can implement a "point to sky feature" until a future Windows Phone 7 OS update will expose this API).
Our Windows Phone 7 SkyMap application has a free trial in place - so anyone can use the application for free as long as he wants. But the full version has no ads and doesn't have any more "locked" features.
2/27/2011 4:37:03 PM
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Sirius
does skymap work like the google sky map android?
2/24/2011 9:29:47 PM
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admin
Abenaton, thanks to you and all others who downloaded and bought the WP7 version. I've included this request on our feature list for the next application update. I'll implement this feature on the website, too. Thanks for the suggestion.
[update - feature implemented on the website: Options - Flip]
1/30/2011 11:07:51 AM
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Abenaton
I just bought the WP7 version. Great! Thank you.
Like Mike and Renee, I was surprised to find that the sun was risind West this morning until I realized the sky map was reversed. As others, I feel rather uncomfortable with this view although I understand why it is as it is !
However, I will, like many, wait for the "flip" function with impatience.
Again, thanks a lot for helping the amateur admire the wonders of the sky.
1/29/2011 12:22:48 AM
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admin
Flora, thanks for the suggestion.
You can turn on now the Alt/Az grid but there is option available to show the celestial equator. But we'll try to add the celestial equator to the map as soon as possible.
1/25/2011 1:25:07 PM
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Flora
just a question: how can i see the celestial equator on this map or it's poles or zodiac....???? I"m confused !!!! :D
1/25/2011 12:11:51 PM
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Flora
OMG I really LOVE this site :xX >:D< Tnx
1/25/2011 12:02:11 PM
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admin
Jay, I understand your concern about the owner identity data. I would like to suggest to you to take a look at Microsoft's Windows Phone 7 Privacy Statement (Display of Advertising section) - http://www.microsoft.com/windowsphone/en-us/privacy.aspx
Also, if you like this SkyMap app, you may consider getting the full version (priced now at $1.29) - because the full version does not use the ad control at all (and it doesn't have any restrictions).
1/23/2011 7:49:04 PM
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Jay
Sorry for the double post. I reloaded the page in my phone's browser and it re-sent the comment.
Thanks for the quick response. I actually read on a developer's forum where someone asked why his app requested ownership. Same as yours, it turned out to be the ads. That's still not cool in my opinion though, I try to keep my personal information from advertisers with browser extensions. Hopefully these advertiser permissions change soon.
1/23/2011 9:42:42 AM
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admin
jay, thank you for your very good question.
We do not collect owner identity data. Our app was flagged on marketplace as using "owner identity data" because the free trial uses WP7 add control. But Microsoft adCenter team claims that the Ad Control doesn’t use Owner Identity, and instead uses only anonymized profile targeting parameters – such as age/gender. Also, only the free trial version of our app is using indirectly data connection and web browser due to the same ad control.
1/23/2011 9:21:27 AM
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jay
In the Windows Phone 7 app, why do you collect owner identity data?
1/23/2011 1:27:46 AM
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admin
George, that's actually what we are working on right now - a Sky Map application on windows phone 7. I hope we'll release it by end on this month (January).
1/8/2011 7:46:11 PM
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George
Great product - online map.
It will be fine if you can offer offline version to be downloaded on portable books when we are in countryside, without any internet or wareless cover.
1/7/2011 7:10:52 AM
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Bill
Just found the site and Really enjoy it,wish I'd have found it sooner could have saved the cash I spent on a sky map book Great Job and keep up the good work,Thanks
12/23/2010 12:50:31 PM
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admin
Johnny, did you try the "Printable Map" menu entry? That will create a "printer friendly" page (white background with black dots). After that map is generated, you can select (from the browser's menu) File - Print (using Landscape mode).
What browser do you use? Have you maybe hit a webserver issue? Or the print option is not what you expect? What do you mean by "nothing there"?
12/9/2010 6:25:03 PM
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johnny
I really loved your site until I tried to print. Nothing there.
12/9/2010 5:27:59 AM
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admin
Barbara, Venus is now in constellation Virgo (it rises at aprox 1:30am - so it can be seen probably after 2am)
You can set the location to your city (click on the menu location and input the name of your city in the location text box + hit enter). After that, you can type Venus in the search button and click Search.
12/2/2010 7:45:15 PM
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Barbara Booth
I want to know where Venus is located in the sky presently over
Waxhaw, N.C.
11/30/2010 1:39:42 PM
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Mark H
Great site - added to my favourites - I'm new to the astronomy hobby with my first telescope arriving for Christmas!
Love the constellation list and the sky map is great
Big Thank You for this site!
11/24/2010 3:14:20 AM
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admin
Please try the new HTML5 Sky Map - it's under development and new features will be added soon (e.g. Tycho and nebulae catalogs, map transitions, probably some map animations, etc). Let me know what you think!
10/31/2010 8:59:48 PM
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admin
J, that sounds like a good deal. Enjoy your new binoculars!
You can buy an adapter from ebay or other Internet stores. I've got mine from ebay ($1 + $4 shipping from China) a few months ago.
10/30/2010 9:58:08 PM
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J
I think I found a nice pair of binoculars for an amazing price to get started. Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15x70 Binoculars with Tripod Adapter for $65.80. I already have a sturdy Targus tripod so I just need the adapter.
10/30/2010 8:21:27 AM
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J
Thank you for the quick response! The tutorial was also very helpful. Im somewhat familiar with the technical terms used since I have a SLR camera. So when I see a 600X magnification telescope its like the 12x digital zoom on the PS cameras. Ill keep reading and learning and once again thank you for the suggestions.
10/29/2010 10:04:22 AM
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admin
J, depends on your expectations. Please check the Astronomy Tutorial - Telescopes page on this website.
There are multiple options:
- dosbsonians (they are bigger, heavier, but you have to starhop - find the targets and manually move the telescope to compensate for the Earth rotation)
- goto telescopes (probably a small refractor in your budget) - after a short alignment process, the telescope will find the targets by itself; they're also easier to carry
You may also start by using binoculars. 9x50 or 8x40 binoculars are good for astronomy (you'll also want some decent quality binoculars to achieve good focus and gather enough light - coated lens are recommended)
10/28/2010 11:33:50 AM
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J
Great site! Im currently interested in starting this hobby at home since I discovered a nice flat concrete terrace on my roof, perfect for setting up a telescope and big enough for a chair a small table and laptop. I was wondering if anyone could recommend a telescope, brand or specifications to get started? My budget is between is $200-$300.
10/28/2010 11:08:29 AM
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Lyle Butkowski
I am very interesed in star charts and I find your web sight the greatest for me. I am a beginner in star searching!
10/14/2010 6:18:07 PM
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admin
Rick, thanks for reporting this issue.
M31 is not shown due to its proximity to M110. Skymaponline has a label overlap detection algorithm. If there are 2 potential overlaps between 2 labels (M31 and M110 in this case), only one will be displayed. I agree with you that the bigger (brightest) objects should be displayed in this case. But until I came up with a fix, there are a couple of work arounds:
- go to higher zoom levels (and both M31 and M110 will be displayed) or...
- use Search (Search for M31) will keep M31 visible (no matter what other label conflicts are around)
10/9/2010 4:12:01 PM
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Rick Allen
I am viewing from Hong Kong. Of special interst to me is M31. When I zoom past a certain point, M31 in the Andromeda constellation disappears and is replaced by M110. Why is this?
10/9/2010 1:28:26 AM
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admin
@ Mike & Renee
There is a compass control on the left of the map (under the zoom control). We can click on it and change the map viewpoint. By default, it's facing south (south is down). But the map can be rotated in any direction.
For example, if you click on the bottom of that compass control, north will go down and west will be to the left. Like any planisphere, sky maps orientations are different compared to standard earth maps (the perspective is different - looking up opposed to down). If we face south and look up, then east is on our left :)
However, it makes a lot of sense to get a "flip map" feature - especially for the users using telescopes. The image in the telescope is flipped - so I've added this request on my "to do" list.
Thank you.
10/2/2010 2:45:22 PM
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zoulkarnein
great site!! went straight to my bookmarks!!THANK YOU for your great great work
10/2/2010 12:40:06 PM
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Mike & Renee
10-02-2010
Could you design your sky map with the points of the compass? W / N / E/ ??
West should be to the left of chart or is there a way to flip chart to match the night skys?
This would make viewing much easier for users:)We really enjoyed your site.
10/2/2010 10:38:17 AM
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Jack D
great site!
9/30/2010 10:35:31 PM
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admin
John, you can use Options – Map Size and get a higher resolution (up to 1300x800).
In the future I may implement a feature to fill the whole browser window.
9/28/2010 5:56:24 PM
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John Krupa
Just wanted to let you know, love the site, it comes in very handy.
I wish that I could make it larger to fill more of my 21inch monitor. Is there anything in the works for this?
9/28/2010 2:52:56 PM
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