What's New

We appreciate your use of SkyORB. Here are the enhancements in this version:

Enhanced engine for reduced lag and improved stability.
Improved French language support.
Kindly be aware that a new SkyORB 2021 version is gradually being phased out, while an exciting new SkyORB app is set to debut in Q4 2023.

App Description

SkyORB 2021 Astronomy for macOS is your gateway to exploring the depths of the solar system and beyond.

This comprehensive astronomy software allows you to chart the stars, planets, and celestial bodies, including comets and asteroids, and embark on a voyage through space.

Key Features:

- Precise Location: Adjust your observation point with manual latitude and longitude inputs or effortlessly through Location Services.
- Astronomy Calendar: Keep track of upcoming celestial events and stay updated with the latest astronomy news.
- Sun and Moon Data: Access sunrise and sunset times, moonrise and moonset times, and full/new moon dates, all generated automatically.
- Immersive 3D Planetarium: Explore a 3D interface that features planets, satellites, and a variety of viewing options. Photorealistic textures and visuals bring celestial bodies to life.
- Solar System Animation: Observe a real-time or accelerated 3D animation of the solar system, complete with facts about each planet.
- Interactive Sky Map: Enjoy a 3D sky map that depicts the positions of planets, stars, constellations, deep space objects, comets, and satellites. Real-time precession keeps you updated.
- Comets and Satellites: Monitor the trajectories of comets and satellites with access to six different databases, including the IAU Minor Planet Center.
- World Map Sun Clock: Track the sun's movement with a world map sun clock, showing sunrise and sunset times.
- Multi-Touch Support: Some devices offer multi-touch support, allowing zoom-in and zoom-out through pinching gestures.
- Universal Search: Easily search for celestial objects and locations.
- Weather Data: Access weather information based on your location.
- macOS Features: Benefit from macOS-specific features, such as push notifications for important astronomy news and a Today widget to receive updates on astronomy events and observations near you.
- Customizable Location: Use your personal location to enhance star chart rendering.

System Requirements:

This app is officially supported on the following Mac models:

- MacBook Pro (mid 2012 and newer)
- MacBook Air (mid 2012 and newer)
- MacBook (early 2015 and later)
- iMac (2014 or newer)
- iMac Pro (2017 or newer)
- Mac Pro (late 2013 or newer, or mid-2010 and mid-2012 models with Metal-capable GPU)
- Mac Mini (late 2012 or newer)

Please note that all 21.5" iMacs with Nvidia 750M and 755M graphics cards, although 'Metal' capable, are not supported.

iPhone Screenshots

(click to enlarge)

SkyORB 2021 Astronomy screenshot 1 SkyORB 2021 Astronomy screenshot 2 SkyORB 2021 Astronomy screenshot 3 SkyORB 2021 Astronomy screenshot 4

App Changes

  • June 10, 2014 Initial release
  • July 23, 2014 New version 4.9.1
  • September 02, 2014 New version 4.9.3
  • October 10, 2014 New version 4.9.7
  • September 13, 2015 New version 5.0.5
  • September 21, 2015 New version 5.1.0
  • December 05, 2015 New version 5.2.2
  • February 03, 2016 New version 5.2.3
  • March 12, 2016 New version 5.2.4
  • June 22, 2016 New version 5.2.6
  • June 30, 2016 New version 5.2.7
  • November 06, 2016 New version 6.0.3
  • November 27, 2016 New version 6.0.4
  • December 31, 2016 New version 6.0.5
  • June 13, 2019 New version 2019.5.1
  • June 26, 2019 New version 2019.6.1
  • August 16, 2019 New version 2019.7.1
  • September 04, 2019 New version 2019.8.1
  • November 11, 2019 New version 2019.10.4
  • December 17, 2019 New version 2019.12.2
  • July 14, 2020 New version 2020.6.1
  • October 23, 2020 New version 2020.10.2
  • October 23, 2020 Price increase: $2.99 -> $3.99
  • December 09, 2020 New version 2020.11.1
  • August 06, 2021 New version 2021.7.1
  • October 15, 2021 New version 2021.9.2
  • September 16, 2023 New version 2021.12.10
  • November 15, 2023 New version 2021.LTS.1