Solar System Scope is an astronomy model and reference for exploring the Solar System, night sky, and outer space. It shows celestial object positions and related information, with a 3D encyclopedia covering planets, dwarf planets, major moons, and more. The night-sky view can show stars and constellations for a location on Earth and simulate skies from other times. On mobile, users can point their device at the sky to locate constellations and celestial objects. The maker says its calculations use NASA-published orbital parameters, while its planet and moon maps use NASA elevation and imagery data, with colors tuned using spacecraft and Hubble imagery. The Android encyclopedia is available in 19 languages. Solar System Scope runs on Android, iOS, macOS, web, and Windows. The online version and mobile apps are free; mobile apps have optional in-app purchases. A Windows and Mac desktop app costs $9.80 one-time and includes offline mode. The maker also provides website embedding code and planetary textures for rendering or image viewing.
Who it is for
Solar System Scope suits learners and astronomy enthusiasts who want to explore celestial objects, view the sky from a location, or simulate it at different times. Website owners can also embed its model.
What is good
- 3D encyclopedia covers planets, dwarf planets, and major moons.
- Night sky can be simulated for past or future times.
- Mobile version can identify objects when pointed at the sky.
- Desktop app includes offline mode.
What to know first
- Mobile apps have optional in-app purchases.
- Desktop app requires Windows 7, 8.1, 10, or Mac OS X.
- Desktop minimum requirement includes 2 GB RAM.
Verdict
Solar System Scope combines a visual model with sky views and reference content across several platforms. The free online and mobile options differ from the $9.80 one-time desktop app, which adds offline access.
Solar System Scope plans and pricing
All plansCompared on astronomy apps
- Free plan
- Yes
- Offline access
- Yes
- Platform coverage
- cross-platform
- AR sky view
- Yes
- Mission tracking
- Yes
- Learning content
- Yes
