Light pollution map

4.30

Information

Category:

Maps & Navigation

Price:

$ 5.49

Rank:

11

Rating:

4.30

Overview

Light Pollution Map is a specialized navigation and mapping application designed to help users locate the darkest areas nearby for optimal stargazing, astrophotography, or research purposes. By integrating high-resolution VIIRS satellite data with an interactive global map, it provides accurate assessments of sky brightness and light pollution levels.

The app offers various advanced features including multiple light pollution datasets, sky quality comparisons using MPSAS and Bortle scales, and additional layers such as aurora predictions and cloud coverage. Its offline-friendly design ensures accessibility even in remote locations, making it an essential tool for astronomers, travelers, and night sky enthusiasts.

Whether planning a dark-sky trip or conducting environmental research, this app delivers precise, science-backed data to enhance your experience under the stars.

Features

Light Pollution Map stands out with its robust feature set tailored for both amateur stargazers and professional researchers. The app utilizes NASA's VIIRS Day/Night Band satellite data, ensuring unparalleled accuracy in evaluating artificial sky glow across the globe.

Key functionalities include interactive overlays for sky brightness, point/area analysis tools, moon phase information, and historical VIIRS data comparison. Users can simulate light conditions, find nearby dark sites, and contribute their own SQM measurements. Additional layers like aurora forecasts and user-submitted SQM data further enrich the mapping experience.

With its intuitive interface, smooth controls, and privacy-focused design free from ads or tracking, this app provides a seamless and reliable way to explore and understand light pollution patterns worldwide.

Map accuracy

Map accuracy is crucial for applications in the Maps & Navigation category, as it ensures users receive reliable and precise information. Light Pollution Map excels in this area by integrating high-resolution VIIRS satellite data, which is recognized for its precision in mapping night-time brightness. This scientific dataset is trusted by research institutions and environmental agencies, guaranteeing that the app's light pollution evaluations are both accurate and authoritative.

The app provides various tools to enhance map accuracy further. Users can access overlays showing sky brightness and dark sky maps, with options catering to colorblind individuals. Additionally, features such as point/area info, moon info, and brightness simulation contribute to a comprehensive understanding of light pollution levels. These tools collectively ensure that users can make informed decisions based on highly accurate data.

For those interested in astrophotography, stargazing, or simply finding darker skies, the app's accuracy is invaluable. It allows users to identify optimal locations for their activities, whether observing meteor showers or capturing the Milky Way. The ability to compare historical VIIRS data also enables tracking changes in light pollution over time, adding another layer of reliability to the user's experience.

Route planning

Route planning is an essential feature for navigation apps, enabling users to find efficient paths to their destinations. While Light Pollution Map primarily focuses on mapping light pollution, it indirectly supports route planning by helping users locate the darkest places nearby. This functionality is particularly beneficial for astronomers, astrophotographers, and nature enthusiasts who seek areas with minimal light interference for their activities.

The app offers several features that aid in effective route planning. For instance, users can utilize the 'find closest dark site' tool to identify nearby locations ideal for stargazing or camping. The inclusion of additional layers, such as Aurora predictions and cloud cover, further assists in planning trips by providing real-time environmental data. These capabilities ensure that users can plan their journeys with confidence, knowing they have access to up-to-date and relevant information.

Moreover, the app's offline-friendly design and GPS integration enhance its utility for route planning. Users can cache data for offline use, ensuring they have access to critical information even without an internet connection. This feature is especially useful for remote adventures where connectivity might be limited. Overall, Light Pollution Map equips users with the necessary tools to plan their routes effectively, making it an indispensable resource for navigating to dark-sky locations.

Pros

Accurate VIIRS data

Offline functionality

Global coverage

User-friendly interface

No ads or tracking

Cons

Paid app

Steep learning curve

Limited casual use

Requires internet for updates

Heavy on storage

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