Astronomy Software - A Simple Guide

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Astronomy Software - A Simple Guide

Sunday, August 9th, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed

Astronomy is a popular subject. Many of these are men of science studied by train who study it by trade. Others are merely hobbyists who enjoy it. Hobbyists have even made many amazing discoveries. In the old days it was the job of telescopes. But now thanks to astronomy software, everyone with a computer can take part in this interesting and at times exciting endeavor. This is a discussion of just some of the available software.

One popular application is SETI@Home. The idea behind this software was to create supercomputer made up of many small computers connected via the Internet. The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence was set to search space for radio signals that indicated intelligent design. the data were analyzed with supercomputers. Today, however, it’s up to people’s computers at home and at the office. There won’t be some kind of alert if intelligent life is found. But people can take pride in being involved in the search for intelligence outside our home planet.

A simple type of astronomy software is the 3D screen saver. These programs kick in when a PC is idle, and show various space objects rendered in spectacular 3D computer graphics. This can include simple views as well as navigable planets, solar systems or other objects that the user can explore from any angle and distance. Search “3D Space Tour” on Google or Yahoo to find some of these fun programs.

F.I.T.S is something not many people have heard of. It’s Flexible Image Transport System, which is a NASA and IAU endorsed format to store and deliver not only images but spacial data and multi-dimensional arrays such as 2-D and 3-D images. It’s used in a lot of software. These include free astronomy software FITSview and AVIS to for sale programs like AstroArt and AIP. A wide selection of FITS viewers can be found with a simple Internet search. Try Duke University’s website.

There is even software that helps adjust for imperfections in telescope lenses. Images seen through the telescope are compared with those shown by the software and adjustments can be made.

There is a lot more astronomy software out there in the world. Web search and download it, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

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