Star-charting apps share some things in common – to locate heavenly bodies you simply point your phone at a patch of sky and the app will display the name and information about the object you’re pointing towards – but they vary in complexity, features, presentation and price. Or perhaps you're planning some astrophotography and have your map sorted but want to know which kit to take, in which case take a look at the best cameras for astrophotography and best lenses for astrophotography. For dedicated astronomers out in the field, however, the best stargazing apps make for an invaluable tool when paired with the best telescopes (opens in new tab) or best binoculars (opens in new tab).

You can map and plan from the comfort of your own home or car because the apps use your smartphone's GPS to locate the constellations and deep space objects from wherever you are.

Using a stargazing app can expose you to the wonders of the night sky in a way that is more accessible and more comprehensible than any other source, and can help you develop a deep understanding of the existence of the cosmos that you can carry with you throughout your lifetime while enhancing your interest in astronomy and astrophotography.

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