For stargazing enthusiasts, having the right tools to understand both the astronomical events and the weather conditions can significantly enhance your experience. Enter Astroweather, a specialized weather forecast service tailored for astronomical observation. Astroweather is built upon the robust data from 7timer.org, integrating not only general weather forecasts but also precise information on sunset and sunrise, as well as moonrise and moonset times.
The foundation of Astroweather's meteorological predictions is derived from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) based numeric weather model, known as the Global Forecast System (GFS). This ensures that users receive reliable and detailed weather data crucial for planning their stargazing sessions.
Originally launched in July 2005 as 7Timer!, this tool was an exploration product supported by the National Astronomical Observatories of China. It underwent significant updates in 2008 and 2011, and is now backed by the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The creator of 7Timer!, a dedicated stargazer, designed it to combat the challenges posed by unpredictable weather, making it an invaluable resource for anyone passionate about the night sky.
Astroweather goes beyond just weather forecasts, offering a comprehensive suite of services tailored for astronomers:
- Astronomical Event Forecast: Stay updated on celestial events like meteor showers, eclipses, and planetary alignments to plan your observations effectively.
- Light Pollution Map and Satellite Images: Access maps showing light pollution levels and satellite imagery to find the darkest skies for optimal viewing conditions.
- Rise and Set Times: Get precise timings for the rise and set of stars, planets, the moon, and satellites, ensuring you never miss a celestial spectacle.
- Astronomy Forum: Engage with a community of fellow stargazers to share experiences, tips, and discuss the latest in astronomy.
With Astroweather, you have a powerful ally in your stargazing toolkit, providing all the necessary information to make your astronomical observations as rewarding and successful as possible.
