End of the Planisphere?
I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years? -- Jay Eads
That is a great question, Jay. I never use a planisphere anymore. Whenever I'm in the field I have my computer connected so I can do astrophotography, and there are two nice planetarium programs on it, both of which can go far deeper than I can see. I generally use Starry Night Pro 6 because it shows a nice horizon view that helps me orient myself. -- Joe --- On Sun, 2/27/11, Jay Eads <jayleads@gmail.com> wrote:
From: Jay Eads <jayleads@gmail.com> Subject: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? To: "Utah Astronomy" <utah-astronomy@mailman.xmission.com> Date: Sunday, February 27, 2011, 12:06 PM I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years?
-- Jay Eads _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
Jay, I used my first planisphere in 1960 when I was six years old. I've purchased a few since and currently use the one made by David Chandler. It's the best made. Since I'm an old-fashioned guy, I'll be sticking with that. My cell phone is for telephone calls. Kim -----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Jay Eads Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 12:06 PM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years? -- Jay Eads _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com ----- No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1204 / Virus Database: 1435/3471 - Release Date: 02/27/11
As much as us old timers complain about it, it is the way of the future. And certainly not just in astronomy. Light aircraft are now being sold with iPads built into the console replacing old fashioned "steam gague" instruments and the FAA recently approved using iPads to replace paper charts even in big aircraft (one airline exec reported replacing all the paper charts in his airplanes with iPods will remove about 50 pounds of charts and binders from each aircraft). I'm not thrilled about having computer screens glaring at true dark sky sites. But I have to admit that they do work well so, as with any other illuminated device, as long as they are shielded I'm ok with them. patrick On 27 Feb 2011, at 12:06, Jay Eads wrote:
I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years?
-- Jay Eads
Computerized devices will certainly replace paper/plastic for most people. I like the ease of use of a planisphere but there are things I don't like: - Too small and too distorted. I tried the large David Levy one but it doesn't store easily in anything, and the white background ruins night vision (more than a computer screen I think). - Most have glare and are difficult to read unless you get the light just right. My eyes are getting worse which doesn't help. My current favorite is the Sky and Telescope one. It's also just a bit large though; I haven't tried Orion's, but I've tried several others and have been very disappointed. For years I've wanted to make a tablet-style computerized planisphere. The farthest I got was to create something in Excel. The main reasons I like them are: - The entire real estate of the device can be used to display just what you want, so you get a much larger image and it's not as distorted. - You can adjust what it displays. You also get planets. - You can adjust the magnitudes of what it displays to better match what you're looking at. I've tried a couple phone versions and they are just too small. To me the iPad or another tablet PC is perfect. Screen contrast continues to improve, especially with LEDs, so that should help night vision issue. Some programs are better than others in this area as well. Craig -----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Jay Eads Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 12:06 PM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years? -- Jay Eads _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
I still insist that the David Chandler planisphere is the best, for a number of reasons. While not unique to Chandler's, the white background and dark text make reading the small print easier for me than on those planispheres that use a dark background with light text. (Craig, maybe your red light, or whatever other colored light you use at night is just too bright.) But the best part of Chandler's planisphere is the reverse side that depicts objects in the southern sky without the distortion of planispheres that do not have this feature. Finally, a word in favor of all planispheres: I've never had one break when I've dropped it. Kim -----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Craig Smith Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 9:29 PM To: 'Utah Astronomy' Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? Computerized devices will certainly replace paper/plastic for most people. I like the ease of use of a planisphere but there are things I don't like: - Too small and too distorted. I tried the large David Levy one but it doesn't store easily in anything, and the white background ruins night vision (more than a computer screen I think). - Most have glare and are difficult to read unless you get the light just right. My eyes are getting worse which doesn't help. My current favorite is the Sky and Telescope one. It's also just a bit large though; I haven't tried Orion's, but I've tried several others and have been very disappointed. For years I've wanted to make a tablet-style computerized planisphere. The farthest I got was to create something in Excel. The main reasons I like them are: - The entire real estate of the device can be used to display just what you want, so you get a much larger image and it's not as distorted. - You can adjust what it displays. You also get planets. - You can adjust the magnitudes of what it displays to better match what you're looking at. I've tried a couple phone versions and they are just too small. To me the iPad or another tablet PC is perfect. Screen contrast continues to improve, especially with LEDs, so that should help night vision issue. Some programs are better than others in this area as well. Craig -----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Jay Eads Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 12:06 PM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years? -- Jay Eads _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com ----- No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1204 / Virus Database: 1435/3472 - Release Date: 02/27/11
Ah yes, I've seen that one and had it on my list to get but it somehow fell off. I'll have to take a look. I think my S&T one was dual sided as well, but I may be thinking of another. Yes I do use red light but usually my adjustable one. Getting the angle of the light right is most important though. But now that my vision is getting worse a white background may be the better way to go; I'll have to give it a shot. Thank, Craig -----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Kim Hyatt Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 9:56 PM To: 'Utah Astronomy' Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? I still insist that the David Chandler planisphere is the best, for a number of reasons. While not unique to Chandler's, the white background and dark text make reading the small print easier for me than on those planispheres that use a dark background with light text. (Craig, maybe your red light, or whatever other colored light you use at night is just too bright.) But the best part of Chandler's planisphere is the reverse side that depicts objects in the southern sky without the distortion of planispheres that do not have this feature. Finally, a word in favor of all planispheres: I've never had one break when I've dropped it. Kim -----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Craig Smith Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 9:29 PM To: 'Utah Astronomy' Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? Computerized devices will certainly replace paper/plastic for most people. I like the ease of use of a planisphere but there are things I don't like: - Too small and too distorted. I tried the large David Levy one but it doesn't store easily in anything, and the white background ruins night vision (more than a computer screen I think). - Most have glare and are difficult to read unless you get the light just right. My eyes are getting worse which doesn't help. My current favorite is the Sky and Telescope one. It's also just a bit large though; I haven't tried Orion's, but I've tried several others and have been very disappointed. For years I've wanted to make a tablet-style computerized planisphere. The farthest I got was to create something in Excel. The main reasons I like them are: - The entire real estate of the device can be used to display just what you want, so you get a much larger image and it's not as distorted. - You can adjust what it displays. You also get planets. - You can adjust the magnitudes of what it displays to better match what you're looking at. I've tried a couple phone versions and they are just too small. To me the iPad or another tablet PC is perfect. Screen contrast continues to improve, especially with LEDs, so that should help night vision issue. Some programs are better than others in this area as well. Craig -----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Jay Eads Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 12:06 PM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years? -- Jay Eads _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com ----- No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1204 / Virus Database: 1435/3472 - Release Date: 02/27/11 _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
Planispheres require no 3g or 4g coverage or WiFi, mine only works when the compass is activated (requiring 3g or WiFi). Does anyone else think T-mobile's claim of "nationwide 4g" false advertising? If you are going to remote locations smart phones are of little benefit and they will adversely affect your night vision, the small screens need to be well backlighted. Planispheres will remain useful as a teaching tool, they require no monthly subscription or gigabytes of memory.
The best way to learn the sky is get a dobson and find objects without goto or electronic devices. These devices have increased the number of people engaged in astronomy but have not seemed to increased learning the constellations. BTW, Sky&Telescope has a new AP "SkyWeek". Ah yes, I've seen that one and had it on my list to get but it somehow
fell off. I'll have to take a look. I think my S&T one was dual sided as well, but I may be thinking of another.
Yes I do use red light but usually my adjustable one. Getting the angle of the light right is most important though. But now that my vision is getting worse a white background may be the better way to go; I'll have to give it a shot.
Thank, Craig
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Kim Hyatt Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 9:56 PM To: 'Utah Astronomy' Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere?
I still insist that the David Chandler planisphere is the best, for a number of reasons. While not unique to Chandler's, the white background and dark text make reading the small print easier for me than on those planispheres that use a dark background with light text. (Craig, maybe your red light, or whatever other colored light you use at night is just too bright.) But the best part of Chandler's planisphere is the reverse side that depicts objects in the southern sky without the distortion of planispheres that do not have this feature. Finally, a word in favor of all planispheres: I've never had one break when I've dropped it.
Kim
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Craig Smith Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 9:29 PM To: 'Utah Astronomy' Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere?
Computerized devices will certainly replace paper/plastic for most people. I like the ease of use of a planisphere but there are things I don't like: - Too small and too distorted. I tried the large David Levy one but it doesn't store easily in anything, and the white background ruins night vision (more than a computer screen I think). - Most have glare and are difficult to read unless you get the light just right. My eyes are getting worse which doesn't help.
My current favorite is the Sky and Telescope one. It's also just a bit large though; I haven't tried Orion's, but I've tried several others and have been very disappointed.
For years I've wanted to make a tablet-style computerized planisphere. The farthest I got was to create something in Excel. The main reasons I like them are: - The entire real estate of the device can be used to display just what you want, so you get a much larger image and it's not as distorted. - You can adjust what it displays. You also get planets. - You can adjust the magnitudes of what it displays to better match what you're looking at.
I've tried a couple phone versions and they are just too small. To me the iPad or another tablet PC is perfect. Screen contrast continues to improve, especially with LEDs, so that should help night vision issue. Some programs are better than others in this area as well.
Craig
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Jay Eads Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 12:06 PM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere?
I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years?
-- Jay Eads _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
_______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
----- No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1204 / Virus Database: 1435/3472 - Release Date: 02/27/11
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_______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
Personally, I'm more interested in seeing (and photographing) amazing objects in space than I am in memorizing constellations. If we lived in another part of the galaxy I'd still be interested in examining the same classes of objects but the constellations would be far different. Do beings on every inhabited planet have to bother memorizing the designs just because their ancestors did? --- On Mon, 2/28/11, erikhansen@thebluezone.net <erikhansen@thebluezone.net> wrote:
From: erikhansen@thebluezone.net <erikhansen@thebluezone.net> Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? To: "Utah Astronomy" <utah-astronomy@mailman.xmission.com> Date: Monday, February 28, 2011, 10:19 AM
Planispheres require no 3g or 4g coverage or WiFi, mine only works when the compass is activated (requiring 3g or WiFi). Does anyone else think T-mobile's claim of "nationwide 4g" false advertising? If you are going to remote locations smart phones are of little benefit and they will adversely affect your night vision, the small screens need to be well backlighted. Planispheres will remain useful as a teaching tool, they require no monthly subscription or gigabytes of memory.
The best way to learn the sky is get a dobson and find objects without goto or electronic devices. These devices have increased the number of people engaged in astronomy but have not seemed to increased learning the constellations.
BTW, Sky&Telescope has a new AP "SkyWeek".
Ah yes, I've seen that one and had it on my list to get but it somehow
fell off. I'll have to take a look. I think my S&T one was dual sided as well, but I may be thinking of another.
Yes I do use red light but usually my adjustable one. Getting the angle of the light right is most important though. But now that my vision is getting worse a white background may be the better way to go; I'll have to give it a shot.
Thank, Craig
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Kim Hyatt Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 9:56 PM To: 'Utah Astronomy' Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere?
I still insist that the David Chandler planisphere is the best, for a number of reasons. While not unique to Chandler's, the white background and dark text make reading the small print easier for me than on those planispheres that use a dark background with light text. (Craig, maybe your red light, or whatever other colored light you use at night is just too bright.) But the best part of Chandler's planisphere is the reverse side that depicts objects in the southern sky without the distortion of planispheres that do not have this feature. Finally, a word in favor of all planispheres: I've never had one break when I've dropped it.
Kim
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Craig Smith Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 9:29 PM To: 'Utah Astronomy' Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere?
Computerized devices will certainly replace paper/plastic for most people. I like the ease of use of a planisphere but there are things I don't like: - Too small and too distorted. I tried the large David Levy one but it doesn't store easily in anything, and the white background ruins night vision (more than a computer screen I think). - Most have glare and are difficult to read unless you get the light just right. My eyes are getting worse which doesn't help.
My current favorite is the Sky and Telescope one. It's also just a bit large though; I haven't tried Orion's, but I've tried several others and have been very disappointed.
For years I've wanted to make a tablet-style computerized planisphere. The farthest I got was to create something in Excel. The main reasons I like them are: - The entire real estate of the device can be used to display just what you want, so you get a much larger image and it's not as distorted. - You can adjust what it displays. You also get planets. - You can adjust the magnitudes of what it displays to better match what you're looking at.
I've tried a couple phone versions and they are just too small. To me the iPad or another tablet PC is perfect. Screen contrast continues to improve, especially with LEDs, so that should help night vision issue. Some programs are better than others in this area as well.
Craig
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Jay Eads Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 12:06 PM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere?
I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years?
-- Jay Eads _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
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On 2/28/11, Joe Bauman <josephmbauman@yahoo.com> wrote:
Personally, I'm more interested in seeing (and photographing) amazing objects in space than I am in memorizing constellations. If we lived in another part of the galaxy I'd still be interested in examining the same classes of objects but the constellations would be far different. Do beings on every inhabited planet have to bother memorizing the designs just because their ancestors did?
That is unknown, but beings on this planet seem to do EVERYTHING just because their ancestors did. Joe, it's just not hard. I learned the constellations when I was ten years old. They are the backdrop to everything else in the sky. The sky is actually a huge clock that tells you a lot of information at a glance, if you have done a bit of studying beforehand. Even kids with developmental or learning disabilities can learn the sky. Learning the constellations does not preclude seeing and imaging amazing objects in space. It enhances it.
The constellations are amazing objects.
On 2/28/11, Joe Bauman <josephmbauman@yahoo.com> wrote:
Personally, I'm more interested in seeing (and photographing) amazing objects in space than I am in memorizing constellations. If we lived in another part of the galaxy I'd still be interested in examining the same classes of objects but the constellations would be far different. Do beings on every inhabited planet have to bother memorizing the designs just because their ancestors did?
That is unknown, but beings on this planet seem to do EVERYTHING just because their ancestors did.
Joe, it's just not hard. I learned the constellations when I was ten years old. They are the backdrop to everything else in the sky. The sky is actually a huge clock that tells you a lot of information at a glance, if you have done a bit of studying beforehand. Even kids with developmental or learning disabilities can learn the sky.
Learning the constellations does not preclude seeing and imaging amazing objects in space. It enhances it.
_______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
Hi Erik, I guess my thought was that constellations are just chance patterns, only showing up because of our particular orientation at this time. In 1,000 years there will be some changes; in 1 million, there will be new constellations. Are they amazing no matter when seen or what they look like? That's giving too much credit to random distributions of stars that our brains have a propensity to draw lines between. We tend to connect the dots. When I was talking about amazing objects, I meant things that are amazing to examine in a telescope, like nebulae or galaxies or, ... you get the picture. Thanks, Joe --- On Thu, 3/3/11, erikhansen@thebluezone.net <erikhansen@thebluezone.net> wrote:
From: erikhansen@thebluezone.net <erikhansen@thebluezone.net> Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? To: "Utah Astronomy" <utah-astronomy@mailman.xmission.com> Date: Thursday, March 3, 2011, 2:51 PM
The constellations are amazing objects.
On 2/28/11, Joe Bauman <josephmbauman@yahoo.com> wrote:
Personally, I'm more interested in seeing (and photographing) amazing objects in space than I am in memorizing constellations. If we lived in another part of the galaxy I'd still be interested in examining the same classes of objects but the constellations would be far different. Do beings on every inhabited planet have to bother memorizing the designs just because their ancestors did?
That is unknown, but beings on this planet seem to do EVERYTHING just because their ancestors did.
Joe, it's just not hard. I learned the constellations when I was ten years old. They are the backdrop to everything else in the sky. The sky is actually a huge clock that tells you a lot of information at a glance, if you have done a bit of studying beforehand. Even kids with developmental or learning disabilities can learn the sky.
Learning the constellations does not preclude seeing and imaging amazing objects in space. It enhances it.
_______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
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I am going to start doing some planetary work when I get the chance. In the market for a Imaging Source DMK 21AF04.AS Monochrome CCD if anyone has one they want to get rid of. Thanks :) David
I guess I don't think in terms of the classic imagery when looking at the constellations. I see what is printed in the atlas, minus the RA/DEC grid lines. Yes, there are plenty of patterns that I key-on, but I'm just recalling atlas data and labels, and mentally attaching them to the same picture I see in the sky. No doubt 42+ years of looking at the sky has enabled this ability to move around quickly on the celestial sphere, but it's been at about the same level of ease since I was twelve or so. No bears, hunters, rabbits, monkeys, typewriters, whatever. Joe, I would just comment that sure, the star patterns change, but not over the course of your or my lifetime. Cartainly you can enjoy a random pattern as much as someone who sees the atlas page up there in the sky, but the message most people here have been relating is that learning those patterns doesn't detract from their beauty, and will further help you to make what time you have under the stars more effective. It will only enhance the entire experience. Another observation is that in knowing the geometry of the stellar backdrop gives one the visual data to grasp the approximate positions of the naked-eye solar system objects relative to each other and the earth. It's like knowing the time on a big clock face with half a dozen hands!
To each his own, I get pleasure out of looking up and seeing familiar shapes. I rarely use a planisphere as I learned with HA Rey, and drew those shapes into my star charts.
What is really needed is a planisphere or planetarium program that shows them as HA Rey does, they are much easier to remember than stick figures. Personally, I'm more interested in seeing (and photographing) amazing
objects in space than I am in memorizing constellations. If we lived in another part of the galaxy I'd still be interested in examining the same classes of objects but the constellations would be far different. Do beings on every inhabited planet have to bother memorizing the designs just because their ancestors did?
--- On Mon, 2/28/11, erikhansen@thebluezone.net <erikhansen@thebluezone.net> wrote:
From: erikhansen@thebluezone.net <erikhansen@thebluezone.net> Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere? To: "Utah Astronomy" <utah-astronomy@mailman.xmission.com> Date: Monday, February 28, 2011, 10:19 AM
Planispheres require no 3g or 4g coverage or WiFi, mine only works when the compass is activated (requiring 3g or WiFi). Does anyone else think T-mobile's claim of "nationwide 4g" false advertising? If you are going to remote locations smart phones are of little benefit and they will adversely affect your night vision, the small screens need to be well backlighted. Planispheres will remain useful as a teaching tool, they require no monthly subscription or gigabytes of memory.
The best way to learn the sky is get a dobson and find objects without goto or electronic devices. These devices have increased the number of people engaged in astronomy but have not seemed to increased learning the constellations.
BTW, Sky&Telescope has a new AP "SkyWeek".
Ah yes, I've seen that one and had it on my list to get but it somehow
fell off. I'll have to take a look. I think my S&T one was dual sided as well, but I may be thinking of another.
Yes I do use red light but usually my adjustable one. Getting the angle of the light right is most important though. But now that my vision is getting worse a white background may be the better way to go; I'll have to give it a shot.
Thank, Craig
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Kim Hyatt Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 9:56 PM To: 'Utah Astronomy' Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere?
I still insist that the David Chandler planisphere is the best, for a number of reasons. While not unique to Chandler's, the white background and dark text make reading the small print easier for me than on those planispheres that use a dark background with light text. (Craig, maybe your red light, or whatever other colored light you use at night is just too bright.) But the best part of Chandler's planisphere is the reverse side that depicts objects in the southern sky without the distortion of planispheres that do not have this feature. Finally, a word in favor of all planispheres: I've never had one break when I've dropped it.
Kim
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Craig Smith Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 9:29 PM To: 'Utah Astronomy' Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere?
Computerized devices will certainly replace paper/plastic for most people. I like the ease of use of a planisphere but there are things I don't like: - Too small and too distorted. I tried the large David Levy one but it doesn't store easily in anything, and the white background ruins night vision (more than a computer screen I think). - Most have glare and are difficult to read unless you get the light just right. My eyes are getting worse which doesn't help.
My current favorite is the Sky and Telescope one. It's also just a bit large though; I haven't tried Orion's, but I've tried several others and have been very disappointed.
For years I've wanted to make a tablet-style computerized planisphere. The farthest I got was to create something in Excel. The main reasons I like them are: - The entire real estate of the device can be used to display just what you want, so you get a much larger image and it's not as distorted. - You can adjust what it displays. You also get planets. - You can adjust the magnitudes of what it displays to better match what you're looking at.
I've tried a couple phone versions and they are just too small. To me the iPad or another tablet PC is perfect. Screen contrast continues to improve, especially with LEDs, so that should help night vision issue. Some programs are better than others in this area as well.
Craig
-----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Jay Eads Sent: Sunday, February 27, 2011 12:06 PM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: [Utah-astronomy] End of the Planisphere?
I'm kinda of on an astronomy kick since the weather continues not to be good for visual observing. So I just got done reading an article that talks of learning the constellations and the article got me thinking. I learned the constellations with a planisphere and from time to time I will still use one. However, in the article the author talks how he had a group of novice astronomy students out and each had a copy of the Edmund's Scientific Planisphere. Some also had SkySafari, StarMap and Distant Suns on their cell phones and they found the constellations and objects far quicker than those using the planisphere. Thus the author came to the conclusion that cell phones and apps are probably on the verge of replacing the planisphere as the tool used for finding constellations and other deep sky objects, especially for the younger generation. One of my observing friends is in his 20's and he uses Distant Suns in the field all the time. So the question I ask is do you use a traditional planisphere (and I could say atlas since some of these aps go down quite deep) or are you still an old book, atlas, planisphere type of guy? It also leads to an interesting thought which is what will be the tools of the amateur astronomer say in 20 or 30 years?
-- Jay Eads _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
_______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Visit the Photo Gallery: http://www.slas.us/gallery2/main.php Visit the Wiki: http://www.utahastronomy.com
----- No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 10.0.1204 / Virus Database: 1435/3472 - Release Date: 02/27/11
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participants (8)
-
Chuck Hards -
Craig Smith -
David Rankin -
erikhansen＠thebluezone.net -
Jay Eads -
Joe Bauman -
Kim Hyatt -
Patrick Wiggins