In the past when we wanted to find things in the night sky, we turned to books, maps, charts, and planispheres. However, today, technology has taken over, particularly with astronomy apps that run on your smart phone or tablet. Many of these have “augmented reality” that will show you the sky in the direction you’re looking. There are many available and it is impossible to list them all. Here are a few that you might try out (some are free, others cost a few dollars).
Many seasoned observers use SkySafari. Stellarium Web is an option for your computer or laptop. Also, you might find Planispheres interesting. If you really want to, you can still find printable maps of the heavens.
Apple (iOS)
A few resources
- Jamie Carter. “14 best astronomy and stargazing apps for smartphones.” BBC Sky at Night Magazine. May 11, 2026.
- “iPhone & iPad Astronomy Software.” Mac Observatory. March 2026.
- Jase Parnell-Brookes. “Best stargazing apps 2026: Navigate the night sky with these AR apps and virtual star maps.” Space.com. January 21, 2026.
- Trevor Jones. “The 20 Best Astronomy Apps for Stargazing.” AstroBackyard. July 15, 2025.
- Stuart Atkinson. “Best astronomy apps for stargazing in 2025.” Astronomy Magazine. January 1, 2025. Updated February 25, 2025.
- Jase Parnell-Brookes. “Best stargazing apps: AR apps and virtual star maps to help you navigate the night sky.” space.com. Updated November 20, 2023.
- Rizwana Zafer. “The best astronomy apps for stargazing this summer.” Mashable. July 23, 2022.
- Chandra Steele. “The Best Apps for Stargazing and Astronomy.” PC Magazine. July 3, 2022.
- Jackie Dove. “The best astronomy apps for iOS and Android.” Digital Trends. March 20, 2021.
- Carolyn Collins Petersen. “The Best Astronomy Apps for Smartphones, Tablets, and Computers.” ThoughtCo. August 27, 2020.
- Marisa Lascala. “15 Best Stargazing Apps for iPhones and Androids to Try Now.” Good Housekeeping. Updated April 23, 2020.
If you’re old fashioned, you might try a Planisphere. A planisphere is an adjustable “Star Wheel” that allows you to dial in the day of the year and the time of night to see a map of the sky as it appears on the selected day and time. Below are three offered by Ken Graun (Guide to the Stars/Amazon).
Ok, you can still find and purchase or print a map of the heavens. We found a few that might be useful.
- The Astronomical League (Night Sky Tools) has maps for each month.
- “Welcome Guide to Astronomy.” Imaginova Publishing/Starry Night.
- “Night Sky Maps (Getting Started in Astronomy).” Sky & Telescope.
- Steve Berardi. “All Sky Map” Amazon. skyatlas.app.
FAS does not officially recommend any specific app or apps. These are just some suggestions that we are familiar with.
You must be logged in to post a comment.