45 Best Free Astronomy, Planetarium Software & Programs
Astronomy is a natural science that’s all about the earth and the universe. While it’s a broad research field driven by professional scientists around the world, it’s also a personal hobby of many who are interested in the study of celestial objects such as stars, moons, planets, nebulae and galaxies. Beside of using your naked eyes, binocular or telescope to obverse these fascinating sky objects, you can also make use of some astronomy software to help you access the mystery of space.
Today we’ve compiled an ultimate list of astronomical software, programs and online tools that help your work and hobby become more effective and interesting. These softwares are suitable to both professional and amateur astronomers and the best part is that they are all free to use!
Best Free Astronomy, Planetarium Software, Programs and Online Tools
1. Stellarium
Stellarium is a popular open-source planetarium software that brings the night sky to your computer screen. It offers a realistic and immersive experience, allowing users to explore the stars, planets, and constellations from any location on Earth and at any time in the past, present, or future. Stellarium’s intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate the night sky, with features such as a zoomable sky map, a powerful search function, and detailed information about celestial objects. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just starting out, Stellarium is a valuable tool for exploring and learning about the wonders of the universe.
2. Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS)
The Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) is one of the most ambitious and influential astronomical surveys ever conducted. It has created the most detailed three-dimensional maps of the Universe, with deep multi-color images of one-third of the sky, and spectra for more than three million astronomical objects. SDSS data have been used to investigate the large-scale structure of the Universe, the distribution of galaxies, the nature of dark matter and dark energy, and much more. The project has involved more than 200 scientists at 25 institutions, and continues to be a rich source of data for astronomers around the world.
3. Home Planet
Home Planet is a versatile astronomy software that allows users to explore the night sky from the comfort of their own home. Developed by John Walker, this free software offers a wide range of features for amateur astronomers. Users can view detailed star charts, track celestial objects, and simulate the sky from any location on Earth and at any time. Home Planet also includes a database of solar system objects, constellations, and deep sky objects, as well as tools for telescope control and spacecraft tracking. With its intuitive interface and powerful features, Home Planet is a valuable tool for both beginners and experienced astronomers alike.
4. C2A (Computer Aided Astronomy)
C2A (Computer Aided Astronomy) is a comprehensive planetarium software designed for amateur and professional astronomers alike. Developed by Philippe Deverchère, C2A offers a range of features to explore and study the night sky. With its user-friendly interface, users can simulate the sky at any location on Earth and at any time, view detailed star charts, and track celestial objects such as stars, planets, comets, and asteroids. C2A also includes tools for telescope control, astrophotography planning, and data visualization, making it a valuable tool for astronomy enthusiasts looking to enhance their stargazing experience and deepen their understanding of the cosmos.
Aladin Sky Atlas is a powerful interactive sky atlas that allows users to visualize astronomical images, surveys, and catalogs. Developed by the Centre de Données astronomiques de Strasbourg (CDS), Aladin provides access to a wide range of astronomical data from various sources, including space missions and ground-based observatories. Users can explore the sky at different wavelengths, overlay different datasets, and access detailed information about celestial objects. Aladin is widely used by astronomers and enthusiasts for research, education, and outreach.
6. Gaia Sky
Gaia Sky is a powerful and interactive astronomy software that allows users to explore the universe in 3D. Developed by the Astronomisches Rechen-Institut (ARI) at Heidelberg University, Gaia Sky is based on data from the Gaia mission, which is mapping billions of stars in our galaxy. This software provides a stunningly detailed view of the Milky Way and beyond, allowing users to navigate through stars, planets, and other celestial objects. With its intuitive interface and high-quality graphics, Gaia Sky is a fantastic tool for both amateur astronomers and professionals alike.
7. Orbiter Space Flight Simulator
Orbiter Space Flight Simulator is a realistic space flight simulation program that lets users experience the challenges of space travel. Developed by Dr. Martin Schweiger, this software accurately models the physics of spaceflight, including orbital mechanics, gravity, and spacecraft systems. Users can pilot a variety of spacecraft, from the Space Shuttle to fictional interstellar vessels, and explore the solar system and beyond. Orbiter is a valuable educational tool for learning about space exploration and is also used by professionals for mission planning and spacecraft design.
8. Google Earth
Google Earth is a versatile tool that offers a unique perspective on our planet and the universe. While primarily known for its detailed maps of Earth, Google Earth also features a Sky mode that allows users to explore the cosmos. Users can view stars, constellations, galaxies, and other celestial objects, as well as take guided tours of the night sky. Google Earth’s user-friendly interface and vast database of images make it an excellent resource for anyone interested in astronomy.
NASA World Wind is an open-source virtual globe program that allows users to explore the Earth and other planets in stunning detail. Developed by NASA, this software provides high-resolution satellite imagery, topographic maps, and 3D terrain models of Earth, Mars, Venus, and the Moon. NASA World Wind is a valuable tool for educators, scientists, and enthusiasts interested in planetary science and exploration.
10. KStars – Desktop Planetarium
KStars is a desktop planetarium software developed by the KDE community. It provides an accurate simulation of the night sky from any location on Earth at any given time. KStars features a powerful catalog of stars, planets, moons, asteroids, and comets, as well as tools for observing and tracking celestial objects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced astronomer, KStars offers a wealth of features to enhance your stargazing experience.
SkyChart, also known as Cartes du Ciel, is a popular and powerful planetarium software that allows users to explore the night sky from any location on Earth. This free software offers a vast database of stars, planets, galaxies, and other celestial objects, making it a valuable tool for astronomers and stargazers alike. With SkyChart, users can generate detailed sky maps, plot the positions of celestial objects, and track their movements across the sky over time. The software also includes features for identifying objects, such as stars, constellations, and deep-sky objects, making it easy for users to learn about the night sky. Overall, SkyChart/Cartes du Ciel is a comprehensive and user-friendly planetarium software that is ideal for both beginners and experienced astronomers.
Virtual Moon Atlas is a specialized software tool designed for lunar observation and exploration. This free software provides detailed maps of the Moon’s surface, allowing users to explore its craters, mountains, and other features in high resolution. VMA includes a wealth of information about the Moon, including the locations of lunar landings, lunar formations, and other points of interest. The software also features tools for simulating lunar eclipses and other lunar events, making it a valuable resource for amateur astronomers and lunar enthusiasts. Overall, Virtual Moon Atlas is a powerful and user-friendly tool for exploring Earth’s natural satellite.
13. Virtual Planets Atlas (VPA)
Virtual Planets Atlas is a free software tool that allows users to explore the planets of our solar system in detail. This software provides high-resolution maps of the planets, including their surface features, atmospheres, and moons. VPA also includes information about the positions and orbits of the planets, making it a valuable tool for studying planetary motion. With VPA, users can track the positions of the planets in real-time and simulate their movements across the sky. Overall, Virtual Planets Atlas is a comprehensive and informative tool for exploring the planets of our solar system.
14. WikiSky.org / Sky-Map.org
WikiSky.org and Sky-Map.org are two websites that offer interactive sky maps and astronomical information. These websites allow users to explore the night sky using their web browsers, making them accessible to anyone with an internet connection. Both sites offer a wealth of information about stars, planets, galaxies, and other celestial objects, making them valuable resources for astronomers and stargazers alike. Users can navigate the sky maps, zoom in on specific objects, and access detailed information about each object. Overall, WikiSky.org and Sky-Map.org are excellent resources for anyone interested in astronomy.
WorldWide Telescope is a powerful virtual telescope software that allows users to explore the universe from their computer. This free software offers high-resolution images of the night sky, including stars, planets, galaxies, and other celestial objects. With WorldWide Telescope, users can navigate the sky in real-time, zoom in on objects of interest, and access detailed information about each object. The software also includes guided tours and educational content, making it a valuable tool for both casual stargazers and professional astronomers. Overall, WorldWide Telescope is an impressive and versatile planetarium software that offers a captivating glimpse into the wonders of the universe.
16. Celestia
Celestia is a free, open-source space simulation software that allows users to explore the universe in three dimensions. It is available for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. With Celestia, users can travel through the solar system, fly to distant stars, and even view galaxies millions of light-years away. The software uses real astronomical data to accurately depict the positions and movements of celestial objects. Users can also add their own spacecraft, planets, and stars to the simulation.
17. Hallo Northern SKY Planetarium Program
Hallo Northern SKY (HN Sky) is a comprehensive planetarium program designed for amateur astronomers. It allows users to explore the night sky from any location on Earth and at any time. HN Sky features a detailed and accurate star catalog, along with a wealth of information on stars, planets, and other celestial objects. Users can simulate astronomical events such as eclipses, conjunctions, and transits, and customize their viewing experience with various options and settings. HN Sky is a valuable tool for learning about the night sky and planning observing sessions.
18. SkyTools – Astronomy Planning Software
SkyTools is a comprehensive astronomy planning software designed for amateur astronomers. It helps users plan their observing sessions by providing detailed information about celestial objects, including their positions, rise and set times, and visibility. SkyTools also offers tools for logging observations, tracking celestial events, and generating custom star charts. The software is available for Windows and is widely used by amateur astronomers around the world.
19. CyberSky
CyberSky is an interactive, user-friendly planetarium software that allows users to explore the night sky from any location on Earth. The software provides a detailed view of the stars, planets, and other celestial objects visible from the user’s location at any given time. CyberSky also includes a wealth of information about the objects in the sky, including their names, positions, and characteristics. Users can also view simulations of the sky at different times and dates to see how it changes over time.
20. Gpredict
Gpredict is a free, open-source satellite tracking software that allows users to track the positions of artificial satellites in real-time. It is available for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. Gpredict uses a variety of tracking algorithms to predict the future positions of satellites based on their orbital parameters. Users can track individual satellites or create lists of satellites to track. The software also includes features for predicting satellite passes, visualizing satellite orbits, and receiving live updates from satellite tracking networks.
21. Winstars
Winstars is a free planetarium software that allows users to explore the night sky in stunning detail. The software includes a comprehensive database of stars, planets, and other celestial objects, as well as detailed 3D models of the solar system and beyond. Winstars also offers a variety of tools for exploring the sky, including a powerful search function, a time control feature for viewing the sky at different times and dates, and a telescope control feature for tracking celestial objects with a telescope.
22. AstroGrav
AstroGrav is a software package for astronomy enthusiasts and professionals that allows them to simulate how astronomical objects move and interact under the force of gravity. It can simulate a wide range of scenarios, from the motion of planets and moons in the solar system to the dynamics of star clusters and galaxies. AstroGrav provides tools for visualizing these simulations and analyzing the data, making it a valuable tool for studying celestial mechanics and planning observations.
23. Voyager by Carina Software
Voyager is a powerful and versatile astronomy software that offers a comprehensive suite of tools for exploring the universe. It provides detailed star charts, allowing users to navigate the night sky with ease. Voyager also includes a database of over 2.5 million stars, planets, and deep-sky objects, making it an invaluable resource for both amateur and professional astronomers. Additionally, Voyager offers a range of advanced features, such as telescope control, astronomical calculations, and the ability to create custom observing lists.
24. Skygazer by Carina Software
Skygazer is a user-friendly astronomy program that is ideal for beginners and casual stargazers. It offers a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy to explore the night sky. Skygazer includes a database of over 100,000 stars, planets, and constellations, as well as detailed sky maps that show the positions of celestial objects in real-time. The software also includes a variety of educational features, such as interactive tours of the night sky and detailed information about different celestial objects.
25. WinOrbit – Satellite Tracking
WinOrbit is a software program designed for satellite tracking. It allows users to track satellites in real-time, providing information such as the satellite’s position, trajectory, and visibility from a specific location on Earth. Users can also predict future satellite passes over their location and track multiple satellites simultaneously. WinOrbit is commonly used by amateur astronomers, satellite enthusiasts, and professionals in the field of satellite communications and tracking.
26. Planetensuche
Planetensuche is a comprehensive planetarium software that offers a wide range of features for exploring the solar system and beyond. It includes detailed maps of the night sky, allowing users to identify stars, planets, and other celestial objects. Planetensuche also includes a database of over 500,000 stars and 10,000 deep-sky objects, as well as detailed information about the planets in our solar system. The software also offers a variety of educational features, such as interactive tours of the solar system and virtual telescope control.
27. JUPOS
JUPOS is a specialized software tool designed for amateur astronomers who are interested in observing and studying the planet Jupiter. It provides real-time information about the positions of Jupiter’s moons, as well as detailed maps of the planet’s surface. JUPOS also includes a range of advanced features, such as the ability to predict the positions of Jupiter’s moons and track their movements across the sky. It is an invaluable tool for amateur astronomers who are interested in observing and studying the largest planet in our solar system.
Best Free Astronomical Images Processing Software
28. IRIS
IRIS, developed by Christian Buil, is a powerful freeware for astronomical image processing. It offers a wide range of features for processing images of various celestial objects, including planets, stars, and galaxies. IRIS supports various file formats, including FITS and RAW, and provides tools for image calibration, alignment, stacking, and enhancement. It also includes advanced features like deconvolution and photometry, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. IRIS has a user-friendly interface and comprehensive documentation, making it easy to learn and use for processing astronomical images.
29. RegiStax
RegiStax is a popular software among amateur astronomers for processing images of planets and the moon. Developed by Cor Berrevoets, it offers a range of features for aligning, stacking, and enhancing planetary images. RegiStax uses advanced algorithms to improve the quality of images, allowing users to capture fine details and features on planets like Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars. It supports various file formats, including AVI and FITS, and provides tools for wavelet processing, which helps to enhance image sharpness and clarity. RegiStax has a user-friendly interface and is suitable for both beginners and experienced astrophotographers.
30. Autostakkert!
Autostakkert! is a popular software for stacking planetary and lunar images. Developed by Emil Kraaikamp, it is known for its fast and efficient image stacking algorithms, which help to reduce noise and improve image quality. Autostakkert! supports various file formats, including AVI and SER, and provides tools for aligning and stacking images automatically. It also offers advanced features like drizzle processing and image quality analysis, making it a versatile tool for astrophotography. Autostakkert! is easy to use and is suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
31. Astrometric Stacking Program (ASTAP)
ASTAP is an astrometric stacking program that allows astronomers to align and stack images taken with telescopes or cameras. It is particularly useful for reducing noise and enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio in astronomical images, making it easier to detect faint objects or details. ASTAP supports a wide range of image formats and provides advanced features for precise image alignment, including plate solving capabilities. It is a valuable tool for both amateur and professional astronomers looking to improve the quality of their astronomical images.
32. DeepSkyStacker
DeepSkyStacker is a freeware for stacking and aligning deep-sky astrophotography images. Developed by Luc Coiffier, it offers a range of features for processing images of galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. DeepSkyStacker supports various file formats, including RAW and FITS, and provides tools for image calibration, alignment, and stacking. It also offers advanced features like dark frame subtraction and flat field correction, which help to improve image quality. DeepSkyStacker has a user-friendly interface and is suitable for beginners and experienced astrophotographers alike.
33. Planetary Imaging PreProcessor (PIPP)
PIPP is a specialized software for pre-processing planetary and lunar images. Developed by a team of astrophotographers, it offers features for aligning, cropping, and converting image formats. PIPP is known for its fast and efficient processing, making it ideal for quickly preparing images for further processing in other software. It supports various file formats, including AVI and SER, and provides tools for batch processing, which allows users to process multiple images simultaneously. PIPP has a simple and intuitive interface, making it suitable for beginners and experienced astrophotographers.
34. C-Munipack
C-Munipack is an astronomical data processing software package primarily used for the calibration, reduction, and analysis of images obtained from CCD cameras or similar devices. It is designed to work with images of celestial objects, such as stars, galaxies, and other astronomical phenomena. C-Munipack offers a range of features, including image calibration (bias, dark, and flat-field correction), image stacking, photometry (measuring the brightness of objects), astrometry (determining the positions of objects), and more. It provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for ease of use and supports scripting for more advanced users. The software is open-source and freely available for download, making it popular among amateur and professional astronomers alike.
35. Lynkeos
Lynkeos is another astronomical image processing software, specifically designed for the processing of astronomical images taken with digital cameras and CCD imagers. It is particularly useful for aligning, stacking, and enhancing images to improve their quality and reveal details of celestial objects. Key features of Lynkeos include image alignment (to correct for tracking errors and atmospheric distortion), image stacking (to reduce noise and improve signal-to-noise ratio), and image enhancement (to bring out details and improve visual quality). It also supports the use of dark frames, flat frames, and bias frames for calibration purposes.
More Free Astronomical Software, Programs and Tools
36. PreviSat
PreviSat is a comprehensive and user-friendly satellite tracking software designed for amateur astronomers, educators, and satellite enthusiasts. It allows users to predict satellite passes, track their orbits in real-time, and observe their positions in the sky. PreviSat provides detailed information about satellites, including their names, launch dates, and orbital parameters, making it a valuable tool for those interested in satellite spotting or studying artificial satellites.
37. Xplanet
Xplanet is a unique and visually stunning software that generates high-quality renderings of the Earth and other planets in the solar system. It uses satellite imagery and elevation data to create realistic 3D models of planetary surfaces, allowing users to explore different locations and view them from various angles. Xplanet also provides real-time updates of cloud cover and city lights, making it a valuable tool for educational purposes and desktop customization.
38. ChronosXP
ChronosXP is a handy astronomical software that provides a wealth of information about celestial events and phenomena. It includes a virtual planetarium that allows users to view the positions of planets, stars, and constellations from any location on Earth and at any given time. ChronosXP also features a calendar of astronomical events, including eclipses, meteor showers, and planetary conjunctions, making it an essential tool for anyone interested in observing the night sky.
39. HEALPix
HEALPix (Hierarchical Equal Area isoLatitude Pixelization) is a versatile software package designed for analyzing and visualizing astronomical data on the sphere. It provides an efficient way to represent data on the celestial sphere while ensuring equal-area pixelization. This makes it particularly useful for applications like cosmic microwave background (CMB) data analysis, galaxy surveys, and simulations of large-scale structure in the universe. HEALPix is widely used in the astronomical community due to its flexibility, scalability, and ease of use.
40. Libnova
Libnova is a powerful and flexible astronomical library written in C, designed to provide developers with a wide range of functions for handling various astronomical calculations. It includes functions for calculating the positions of celestial objects, such as stars, planets, and comets, as well as tools for performing coordinate transformations, orbital calculations, and more. libnova is highly portable and can be easily integrated into a variety of applications, making it a valuable tool for both amateur and professional astronomers alike.
41. Sky Simulator for Ascom & Alpaca
Sky Simulator is a software tool that allows users to simulate a virtual telescope and control it using the ASCOM (Astronomy Common Object Model) or Alpaca protocols. This allows users to test telescope control software or experiment with different telescope configurations in a virtual environment. Sky Simulator provides a realistic simulation of the night sky, complete with accurate star positions and celestial objects. It is a valuable tool for telescope manufacturers, software developers, and astronomers looking to test and improve their equipment or software.
42. PP3 – Celestial Charts Generator
PP3 is a powerful and versatile astronomical software for generating celestial charts. It offers a wide range of features for creating detailed and customizable star maps, suitable for both amateur and professional astronomers. The software allows users to plot stars, constellations, and other celestial objects with great precision, making it an invaluable tool for observing and studying the night sky. PP3’s user-friendly interface and extensive documentation make it easy for users to get started and create stunning celestial charts.
43. Echoes
Echoes is a unique and innovative software tool for visualizing astronomical data. It allows users to explore the universe in a three-dimensional virtual environment, providing a new perspective on celestial objects and phenomena. With Echoes, users can navigate through space, zoom in on specific objects, and view detailed information about stars, galaxies, and other celestial bodies. The software’s intuitive interface and immersive experience make it a valuable tool for both education and research in astronomy.
44. Simbad
Simbad is a comprehensive astronomical database that provides access to information on millions of celestial objects. It offers a wide range of search options, allowing users to quickly find detailed information about stars, galaxies, and other astronomical objects. Simbad’s extensive database and powerful search capabilities make it an essential tool for astronomers and researchers seeking to study and analyze celestial objects.
45. XEphem
XEphem is a popular astronomical software tool for visualizing and analyzing celestial objects. It offers a wide range of features, including interactive star charts, telescope control, and astronomical calculations. XEphem’s user-friendly interface and powerful capabilities make it an essential tool for amateur and professional astronomers alike. The software is constantly updated and improved, ensuring that users have access to the latest tools and features for exploring the universe.
Tags: astronomy, space, utility software, web app