38 replies to this topic

[NigelR]

Hi all :-)
In response to request for 'alternatives' I can recommend a FANTASTIC 'tablet' application called "What's Up" that is SPECIFIC to the BLACKBERRY PLAYBOOK. Now for those who do not follow 'technology', it seems that unless mobile device is Apple or Android based then advice given is 'why bother'. A point of view I TOTALLY disagree with! Currently the Blackberry Playbook is a WiFi ONLY device (a 4G version may be announced by RIM later today at launch of Blackberry 10) and is available at discounted pricing due to general consensus that device is 'rubbish'. Again, I TOTALLY disagree with this view point and am VERY happy with features and functionality provided by RIM products. Oh, I also enjoy using the Meade mySky which (yet again my point of view which seems to differ greatly from general consensus / comments relating to mySky but then again it is MY prerogative to NOT agree with mass opinion) is a GREAT device for introducing astronomy during 'out reach' events...
My 2c worth... Remember to KEEP SMILING :-)

[rmollise]

I will wait until they come out with another device.

I wouldn't be shocked if they never do. At a guess, modern smart phones seem to have rather destroyed the market for this kind of a device.

I'll go so far as to say I'd be shocked if they did. The dedicated star-finder is as dead as a doornail. That doesn't mean I don't LIKE my SkyScout. It, unlike the PITIFUL MySky, worked fairly well and dependably.

I just don't have much occasion to use it. The biggest plus for the iPhone/Android apps is that not only do you have a star-finder app, you have a complete star atlas on your belt. All the time. Yes, in some ways, the peep-sight of the SkyScout is a little more accurate, but that is generally outweighed by its sensitivity to magnetic interference--like just a line of cars parked on the edge of a star party field.

[Atl]

It is worth noting that any tablet or phone that have magnetometers can experience interference and lose accuracy. The app might not detect it but it does happen.

[rmollise]

It can, but not nearly to the extent is does with the SkyScount, not in my experience.

[NigelR]

Hi again everyone
First an advance apology if this post should be directed to another forum as although has relevance to the current topic (discontinuation of skyscout) the pictures are for the 'Whats Up' application on my Playbook which maybe will be an acceptable alternative / replacement?... Am not sure if / how to attach multiple screen shots (so as to provide readers an overview being as Playbook not a 'common' device) so will send one by one. Again sincere apologies Mr. moderator if posting is deemed inappropriate. First picture (low resolution to minimise size) is application icon - Bottom row second from left

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[NigelR]

Intro to application...

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[NigelR]

Search...

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[NigelR]

Listing (its daytime!)

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[NigelR]

Note that 'compass' function displays TRUE heading and NOT magnetic as correct declination for current location is applied - SUPER COOL!

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[NigelR]

the 'Point and View' (P&V) feature...

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[NigelR]

and to conclude a screen shot of Wikipedia link that can be accessed if required via WiFi link OR by using the GSM (CDA?) connectivity when 'bridged' to a Blackberry phone... Trust this overview is of interest / value to anyone / someone. VBR and as always, Keep looking up! Clear skies :-)

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[Joe Bergeron]

The iPod Touch is essentially an iPhone without the phone. It doesn't have GPS either, but you can still use it to run SkySafari and other astronomy apps. No contract or cellular data needed (or possible).

[rmollise]

Yep, and SkySafari runs well on an iPod...BUT...it lacks a compass, so the star finder function is not fully operational.

[Moondoggy]

Guys,
I bought a very lightly used Skyscout. It works perfect. I got it cheap. I have been in Astronomy for almost 17 years. I read books and chase websites on Astronomy on my $17.95 a month dial-up...
I have several scopes,mostly old technologies these days. Now living on a small monthly check, I have to find ways to teach kids and other outreach. I wish I could have the New fangled toys,but I am happy with what I got. I am NOT inexperience Observer or a part of the population who not compass Oriented as Gordon mention.
Be happy with what you have to use,learn the old ways,use cheap tech if you can get it. I bought my Celestron Skyscout because my memmory isn't as clear as it was once. If you get New Tech toys, I am really happy for you,but remember sometimes the batteries go dead,and I have seen these so called New Screen with fancy software,be pointed up in the sky and people showing things like the Orion Nebula,and the Ooo and Aaahs would come . And just laugh becuse Orion would be 40 to 50 degress off target. I don't know about you,but I rather work on an Old truck and repair it ,than look at a New Truck broke down and have a hissy fit,because I couldn't figure where or even figure where they stuck the spark plugs. Please be kind to us Older fuzzy guys. Enjoy and share the Creation.