Software choices for a beginner

[gwmbox (Greg)]

Hi all

I have a Skywatcher EQ1 Refractor scope, about a year old. When I bought it the Shop owner gave me a copy of Starry Night but I think it is very old, the manual says printed in 1998, and the software says version 2.1 so I am guessing it is quite old.

Is there better software or is Starry Night new versions the best tool still?

While I'd love to get a new version and a pro version, the budget is very tight.

So what software solutions do you use and recommend for a beginner to help find and locate items in the sky?

Thanks

[Barrykgerdes]

There are lots of good astronomy programs available and some of the best are free.

Try Stellarium at www.stellarium.org

Barry

[graham.hobart (Graham stevens)]

I second that, even with some other software, I find I tturn to Stellarium frequently to simulate later night skies or find interesting objects. And you can't beat the price (free!)
Skysafari is a nice programme too, I llike the tonight's best feature.
Happy hunting

[PCH (Paul)]

ahem, - that would be ...

www.steLLarium.org - the single L variety will have you whisked off to another more dodgy looking site altogether !

[mithrandir (Andrew)]

Stellarium has colourful graphics but needs good OpenGL support (NVidia cards preferred to ATI).

If you have less graphics power to throw at it, Carte du Ciel (aka Skycharts), C2A, or Hallo Northern Sky.

If you have a Mac, iPad or iPhone look at SkySafari Pro at the Apple store.

[Barrykgerdes]

Sorry about the typo

I have a lot of trouble with my keyboard. It has a habit of missing letters, dyslexia, wrong key etc. I have replaced the keyboard many times but they all have the same trouble.

Barry

PS who is going to refer to it as "finger trouble"

[adman (Adam)]

Originally Posted by PCH

ahem, - that would be ...

www.steLLarium.org - the single L variety will have you whisked off to another more dodgy looking site altogether !

yeah - and while we are at it - what is with www.stelarium.com ??

[mithrandir (Andrew)]

Originally Posted by Barrykgerdes

Sorry about the typo

I have a lot of trouble with my keyboard. It has a habit of missing letters, dyslexia, wrong key etc. I have replaced the keyboard many times but they all have the same trouble.

I must get my keyboards from the same manufacturer. "Preview Post" before "Send" means I spot most of them.

PS who is going to refer to it as "finger trouble"

You did

[Barrykgerdes]

Originally Posted by adman

yeah - and while we are at it - what is with www.stelarium.com ??

Beats me. I have not seen that before. My keyboard that has a mind of its own has never taken me there before.

Barry