LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS11) -- There are a number of astronomical events coming our way this year, from a close encounter with Mars to meteor showers. This week’s App of the Week can help you prepare and enjoy the cosmos year-round.
The Cosmic Watch app allows users to explore the relationship between time and our place in the cosmos.
With the world clock feature, get a visual display of which parts of the planet are in darkness and light and see what time it is anywhere on Earth with the touch of a finger.
If you want to find your current position in the cosmos, use the navigation feature to align the app with points on the compass and see a real-time cosmic map of constellations and planets.
The app will also allow you to trace the paths of each planet as we make our way around the sun, so whether you’re into astrology or planning your next skywatching event, you’ll know the locations and movements of each body in our solar system.
And, if you’re curious where the planets were located on a certain date--say, your birthday--you can use the app to travel back in time and see a cosmic map for a date of your choosing.
If you want to explore these upcoming events from your smartphone, check out the Cosmic Watch app today.
July 27: A bright Mars will appear near the moon as the red planet makes a close approach to Earth.
August 12-13: The annual Perseid meteor shower should be easier than normal to view due to a lack of moonlight.
December 12: The comet 46P/Wirtanen may be visible to the naked eye as it passes Earth.
If you have an app you think would make a good App of the Week, send it my way at wweible@whas11.com or reach me on twitter @WorldWideWeible.