Both astronomers and astrologers would like to make one thing clear, now and forever: Their respective areas of study are very different. Where astronomy is a natural science that aims to explain celestial phenomena, astrology is the interpretation of how celestial events affect life on Earth — it is, let's be real, an imperfect science.
But, if you're a fan of the latter, you can still benefit from dabbling in the former, no planetarium required. There are plenty of stargazing and star-charting apps to choose from if you want to better understand the celestial movements described in your horoscope — so many, in fact, that it can be overwhelming to know which ones to download.
Ahead, we've rounded up our favorite star map apps that will enhance your astrological exploration. (Advanced astro students should download this handy ephemeris app, to bring their stargazing full circle.)
Made with both the astronomy student and horoscope reader in mind, this app keeps you up to date on all forms of lunar activity, including its brightness, phase, distance from Earth, and what Zodiac sign it's in at the moment. Deluxe Moon also informs you about upcoming eclipses (lunar and solar) and gives you the option to set alarms for specific phases. Think of this as your "gateway" app to start using more technical stargazing platforms.
This Webby Award-winning app boasts augmented reality features that allow you to explore both the stars surrounding the Earth and the entire solar system in great detail. You can hop between different saved locations to experience the night sky from different viewpoints and even move backward and forward in time to watch the orbit and movements of the planets.
This ultra-informative app enables you to keep tabs on the moon, planets, and constellations (including those of the Zodiac) as they travel through the sky. Just point your phone toward the heavens and it'll show you what's overhead. You can even track celestial bodies' movements into the future — and see what they were up to years ago — with SkyView's "Time Travel" feature.
Much like SkyView, this app identifies stars, planets, and objects that aren't even visible to you at the drop of a hat, so you don't have to stargaze uninformed. Its customizable notifications allow you to select specific risings, settings, and alignments to be alerted to as they occur. In other words, you'll never miss a gorgeous sunset again.
In addition to real-time sky mapping and planet tracking, this app reveals which celestial bodies are below the horizon at any time (like the sun when it sets for the night) and allows you to zoom in on planet. Ever wanted to get up close and personal with the moons of Saturn? Let Star Chart give you a tour. Plus, its constellation guide features detailed illustrations of them by 17th century astronomer Johannes Hevelius.
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