Star Walk for iPad – interactive astronomy guide – Review
By App Type: Uncategorized
Our rating: 
By: Vito Technology Inc.
Version #: 5.2.2
Date Released: 2010-04-01
Developer:
Price: 4.99
User Rating:
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Star Walk has been a very popular app since its initial release for the iPhone in 2009, as it should be. The app offers a unique functionality that is few and far between in the App Store.
Fundamentally, you can point your iDevice camera towards the sky (in this case an iPad but you can use the iPhone as well. Since the app works best with GPS, it may not work with the iPod touch unless there’s a WiFi signal around). Using built-in charts used in conjunction with the compass and GPS on your device, it shows you the stars you should be looking at. This is particularly useful if, like me, you don’t have a clear view of the sky.
When I was young, I used to go to the planetarium a lot, so I particularly like the app’s ability to give an outline of the constellations you should be seeing. The app also gives various information about heavenly bodies that you would be able to see in the sky (although it would be helpful to have a telescope). Like any good educational app, the app has an informational button to give more data about whatever you’re looking at.
The app’s controls are not intuitive and you may have to play around a bit to get the hang of it. There are neon alien green buttons to tap in the four corners of the screen that allow for various functionality. It would help if they were more clearly labeled.
If you have any interest in the stars whatsoever, this is the app to get. If you can’t spare the five dollars, wait until the next 99 cent sale.
Quick Take
Value:High.
Would I Buy Again:Most likely.
Learning Curve:Medium.
Who Is It For:Those who want to learn about astronomy and astrology while walking on the front lawn.
What I Like:Excellent concept and execution.
What I Don't Like:Controls could be more intuitive.
Final Statement:Everybody should go on a Star Walk at some point.
WHAT IT DOES:
Star Walk enables you to point your iPad at the sky and see what stars, constellations, and satellites you are looking at in real-time. Check out the full list of features below.
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MAIN FEATURES:
- Augmented Reality for iPad 2
- Star Spotter - real time motion tracking tells you what stars are above you in the sky;
- Satellites Tracking - never miss ISS flying over your head again;
- Time Machine - see what the sky looks like at any moment in the past or future;
- Picture of the Day - stunning pictures from deep space;
- Night Mode - preserve your dark vision to see more stars;
- Search - wondering where Jupiter is right now? Arrow will guide you to it;
- Big Screen - connect a second display to view the sky on a big screen;
+ AirPrint, Moon Phases, Info, View from any location, TelRad, Sharing, Bookmarks, and more!
*No internet connection required*
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ATTENTION!
- Calibration feature is only available on devices with a camera.
- If you want to connect your iPad to a secondary screen, you will need an Apple Component AV Cable or Apple iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter.
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Vito Technology is a member of Moms with Apps, a collaborative group of family-friendly developers seeking to promote quality apps for kids and families.
Recommended Ages: all
Categories: Environment, Science
