An honest SkySafari alternative
SkySafari is excellent. If you need millions of objects and a huge image library, it is the right tool. Planetary Explorer is for a different job: a calm, offline app that also does astrology, events and classroom teaching — for a one-time price.
See Planetary Explorer →▶ Try it in your browser
What is the same
- A real star chart with constellations and deep-sky objects
- Telescope control (ASCOM Alpaca)
- A Tonight planner with rise/transit/set and altitude curves
- Works on Android
Where Planetary Explorer differs
| Planetary Explorer | Typical premium planetarium | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | One-time, ~$7.99 | Often $20–50 |
| Offline | Everything bundled | Large downloads; some features online |
| Ads / accounts | None | Varies |
| Astrology | Full birth-chart engine | Usually not included |
| Classroom | Teacher mode with lessons and worksheets | Usually not included |
| Catalogue depth | 41,411 stars, 1,900 deep-sky | Up to millions of objects |
If catalogue depth is your priority, choose the bigger app. If you want offline, no ads, astrology, events and teaching in one dependable package at a fraction of the price, this is it.
See Planetary Explorer →▶ Try it in your browser