This page lists a variety of software tools that are helpful when planning an observing run. They provide access to information on the weather, objects visible in the sky, phases of the Moon, visible features of other planets, and equipment usage.
Clear Sky Chart
Click the chart below to view more information about the chart, including instructions for interpreting it.
AstroViewer Sky Chart
Mars. Jupiter and Saturn
Planets are fascinating to observe. Mars has surface features and polar ice caps. Jupiter’s cloud bands and four large moons are easily visible in small telescopes. In addition to Saturn’s fabulous ring system, it also has moons. These links give information on each of these planets.
trek.nasa.gov/mars/
The map of Mars surface features is deceptively simple, but contains a wealth of features. Be sure to review the tutorials to learn about the features available.
shallowsky.com/jupiter
This map of Jupiter shows the positions of its four “Galilean” moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto (remember them with this little mnemonic: “I Eat Good Cookies”). It also shows the moons’ shadows on Jupiter’s cloud tops, and the position of the Great Red Spot. The orientation may be selected for several types of optics.
skyandtelescope.org/wp-content/plugins/observing-tools/saturn_moons/saturn.html
Saturn’s bright moons are shown in this interactive map. The orientation may be selected for several types of optics.
Weather
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Weather Service provide a range of sophisticated weather information to the aviation community. This information is also very useful for astronomers. Choose from weather radar, satellite images, prognostic charts, and METARs for local airports.
www.windy.com
Windy.com produces animated weather maps showing flow patterns and a variety of weather-related features.
www.lightningmaps.org/#m=oss;t=3;s=0;o=0;b=;ts=0;y=41.3309;x=-79.5115;z=10;d=8;dl=2;dc=0;
Lightning is a hazard that astronomers definitely need to be aware of! LightningMaps.org produces near real-time maps of lightning activity. The map presented here is centered on the location of the Oil Region Astronomy Learning Center, which is near the eastern boundary of State Game Lands Number 45.
https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/
Are you interested in monitoring Aurora forecasts and other space weather-related events? You can find more at this site.
Light Polution
Equipment Use
Astronomy magazine has a great set of tutorials about setting up and operating observing equipment.