27th of September 2023
As we embarked on the journey of developing SkyORB, our mission was clear: to enhance the user experience of this powerful astronomy engine. In doing so, we not only gave the interface a complete makeover but also undertook a meticulous review of some of the longstanding features. For instance, Pluto, once considered a planet, was reclassified as a dwarf planet. The demarcation between celestial bodies like moons and planets is now crystal clear in the new version. We also addressed numerous typographical errors, including the distinction between Japetus and Iapetus.
One significant enhancement we made was in the realm of local sky projections. We introduced three distinct projection modes: the altazimuth, now significantly refined, the default stereographic projection, and the gnomonic projection, which proves invaluable when observing objects directly overhead.
For telescope enthusiasts, we incorporated a feature that provides a view akin to peering through a telescope. This mode is not limited to the moon; it also works wonders for planets like Jupiter and its moons, as well as Saturn. What sets it apart is the precision of moon positions, accounting for the time light takes to travel, sometimes resulting in up to a 20-minute delay and occasionally presenting distinct observations.
Our rigorous testing took us outdoors, to real locations and various latitudes, to ensure the accuracy of our calculations. Notably, our “point to sky” function is now ever-ready, with options neatly tucked into a full-screen menu for convenience.
We’ve optimized SkyORB Infinite for urban stargazing, recognizing that city lights may dim the number of visible stars. Rest assured, SkyORB will prioritize showing you the celestial wonders that matter most in these settings.
The moon, with its ever-shifting angle of tilt, is now portrayed accurately. This is especially crucial for stargazers in the southern hemisphere or those at latitudes in the tropics where lunar angles play a pivotal role.
In SkyORB 2021, we utilized 3D rendering, but in SkyORB Infinite, we’ve transitioned to the superior 2D projection. This not only enhances accuracy but also ensures consistent rendering across all platforms. Any discrepancies, including those from SkyORB 2021, have been diligently addressed.
In summary, SkyORB Infinite represents a significant improvement in helping you identify celestial objects with its enhanced “point to sky” feature. The new notification system, featuring daily, monthly, and lunar events, is now thoughtfully separated, making it exceptionally handy for planning your next star-gazing adventure.
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