Using Stellarium PLUS (Mobile) - Star Map on iOS and Android!

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on how to set up and use the Stellarium PLUS - Star Map app on both iOS and Android devices. Stellarium is a powerful tool for stargazers and astrophotographers, helping you plan your shoots and locate celestial targets effectively in the field.

Step 1: Download the App

To get started, you will need to download the Stellarium PLUS app on your mobile device.

• For iOS users, download from the App Store:
  Download Stellarium PLUS for iOS

• For Android users, download from Google Play:
  Download Stellarium PLUS for Android

Step 2: Set Up Your Location

After downloading, the next step is to configure your location settings to get accurate star maps.

1. Open the Stellarium PLUS app.
2. Allow the app to access your device's location or manually enter your geographical coordinates.
3. Adjust the settings to reflect your current location for precise celestial tracking.

Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with the Interface

Understanding the app's layout will enhance your experience.

• Explore the following features:
  • Sky View: Displays the night sky based on your location.
  • Search Function: Use this to find specific stars, planets, and other celestial objects.
  • Time Control: Adjust the time to see how the sky changes throughout the night.

Step 4: Use the Search Function

Finding specific celestial objects is straightforward with the search feature.

1. Tap on the magnifying glass icon or the search bar.
2. Enter the name of the star, planet, or constellation you want to locate.
3. Select the object from the search results to highlight it in the sky view.

Step 5: Plan Your Astrophotography Shoot

Stellarium PLUS is particularly useful for planning astrophotography sessions.

• Consider the following tips:
  • Check the rise and set times of celestial objects.
  • Use the light pollution map feature to find the best locations for shooting.
  • Plan around moon phases for optimal darkness.

Step 6: Enable Augmented Reality Mode

For a more interactive experience, use the Augmented Reality (AR) mode.

1. Activate AR mode from the settings menu.
2. Point your device toward the sky to overlay the star map in real-time.
3. This feature helps in identifying stars and constellations easily as you view them live.

Conclusion

Stellarium PLUS is a versatile tool for stargazers and astrophotographers, providing an intuitive interface to explore the night sky. By downloading the app, setting your location, and familiarizing yourself with its features, you can enhance your stargazing and photography experience. For further exploration, consider checking out the desktop version of Stellarium for more advanced features. Happy stargazing!