Hot take: I blew $150 on a 'premium' star chart app and it's basically useless

So I got really into trying to plan my viewing sessions from my yard in Cincinnati, and I saw this fancy app that promised real-time, super detailed charts with all the deep sky objects. The screenshots looked amazing, so I paid the one-time fee. Big mistake. The interface is so cluttered and slow that by the time it loads and I find anything, my eyes have already adjusted to my phone screen and I've ruined my night vision. It also constantly needs a data connection, which is spotty out back, so half the time it just shows a spinning wheel. I've gone back to my old, free planisphere and a printed monthly sky guide from a magazine. The debate I'm having with myself is whether these super detailed digital tools are actually better for casual backyard viewing, or if they just overcomplicate a simple, peaceful hobby. Has anyone else dumped money on an app or gadget that just got in the way?

2 comments

2 Comments

emery8795d ago

My paid SkySafari app is the only reason I find anything beyond the Big Dipper.

morgan_butler5d ago

I bought a similar app a few years back and had the exact same problem with the lag and screen brightness. What finally worked for me was just using a simple red-light flashlight with my old paper charts. I can find what I need without waiting for an app to load or worrying about service. Sometimes the simpler tools just let you focus on the actual sky instead of fighting with technology.