11th Of September 2023
After a year-long hiatus since December 2021, we are thrilled to announce the return of SkyORB. Over the years, our app has been a reliable companion for astronomy enthusiasts, but it was time for a fresh start. We recognized that our mobile interface had its limitations, and we were determined to enhance your stargazing experience.
With SkyORB Infinite, we have undertaken a complete redesign, focusing on clarity and usability. We’ve restructured the app into three distinct sections: Notifications, Your Location, and the Astronomy Catalog. Gone are the rows of icons cluttering your screen; instead, you’ll find clean, text-based options that maximize your screen real estate. SkyORB Infinite adapts seamlessly to various devices, from phones and tablets to desktops.
Under the hood, we’ve made significant improvements. The Skychart now features an advanced 2D mode, complete with constellation boundaries that were previously absent. You can choose from three different projection modes and enjoy a new night mode. Plus, SkyORB Infinite harnesses the power of ARKit for automatic location detection.
Our 3D celestial bodies have received a makeover too. We’ve incorporated new textures and introduced physical-based rendering. Notably, we’ve added many of the moons and dwarf planets that were missing before. Dwarf planets now have dedicated sections, and each planet boasts a comprehensive page with detailed information.
Tracking comets and satellites has never been easier. The orbital elements for these celestial objects, introduced in 2021, are now presented in a stunning 3D format. You can select them individually or as groups, eliminating the need to manually sync databases.
Our 3D star map and catalog have also undergone extensive improvements. Each celestial object now has its dedicated page, complete with properties, orbital data, and topocentric coordinates. We’ve reimagined the time shift feature, enhancing it compared to SkyORB 2021.
While we’ve introduced exciting changes, we’ve temporarily removed the 3D slider, the Milky Way, 3D views of the International Space Station (ISS), and the asteroid belt. But fear not, these features will make a triumphant return in the coming year.
One more thing: SkyORB now speaks French! Astronomy news is available in both English and French, and our notifications have received significant upgrades.
We can’t wait for you to experience the new and improved SkyORB Infinite. The cosmos awaits your exploration!”
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