Light pollution map

4.30

Information

Category:

Maps & Navigation

Price:

$ 5.49

Rank:

Rating:

4.30

Overview

Light Pollution Map is a specialized navigation tool designed for astronomy enthusiasts, astrophotographers, and nature lovers who seek the darkest locations for optimal night sky viewing. The app combines high-resolution VIIRS satellite data with an interactive global map to provide users with accurate information about light pollution levels in specific areas.

One of its core features is the ability to explore sky brightness through detailed overlays, including colorblind-friendly options. Users can compare light pollution levels across different regions, plan trips to dark-sky locations, and even simulate brightness conditions based on moon phases. Whether you're planning a stargazing session or conducting research on light pollution, this app ensures you have access to the most up-to-date and scientifically reliable data available.

The app's value extends beyond casual use; it serves as a critical resource for professionals and hobbyists alike. With tools like MPSAS (magnitude per square arc second) and Bortle scale estimations, Light Pollution Map simplifies complex measurements into actionable insights. Its offline functionality and clean design make it an essential companion for anyone exploring remote areas without internet connectivity.

Features

Light Pollution Map stands out due to its robust feature set tailored specifically for navigating light-polluted environments. At its core, the app provides an interactive light pollution map powered by NASA's VIIRS Day/Night Band satellite data, ensuring unparalleled accuracy when evaluating artificial sky glow. This scientific-grade dataset is widely used by research institutions and environmental agencies worldwide.

Users benefit from advanced mapping tools such as point/area info, moon phase tracking, brightness simulation, and historical VIIRS data comparisons. These features allow users to not only locate dark-sky sites but also track changes in light pollution over time. Additional layers, including aurora predictions, cloud coverage, and user-submitted SQM (Sky Quality Meter) readings, enhance the app’s versatility for various outdoor activities like astrophotography, camping, and aurora spotting.

A key advantage of this app is its privacy-respecting design. Unlike many modern applications, Light Pollution Map avoids intrusive ads and tracking mechanisms, focusing solely on delivering a seamless experience. Its intuitive interface, smooth controls, and fullscreen mode further elevate usability, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with technical mapping tools.

Map accuracy

Map accuracy is a critical feature for any navigation or mapping application as it ensures users can rely on the information provided to make informed decisions Light Pollution Map excels in this area by integrating high resolution VIIRS satellite data which is widely recognized for its precision in monitoring nighttime brightness This scientific dataset used by research institutions and environmental agencies guarantees that the app's light pollution information is both accurate and reliable The app provides an interactive global map with detailed overlays showing sky brightness and dark sky locations Users can explore various layers such as Aurora predictions Clouds and user submitted SQM measurements which all contribute to a comprehensive understanding of light pollution conditions The accuracy of the map is further enhanced by the ability to compare historical VIIRS data allowing users to track changes in light pollution over time This level of detail and precision ensures that whether users are astronomers astrophotographers or simply nature enthusiasts they can trust the app to guide them to the darkest locations nearby With global coverage and high detail Light Pollution Map offers a dependable tool for anyone seeking accurate and up to date night time light data

Route planning

While Light Pollution Map primarily focuses on providing accurate light pollution data it also offers valuable route planning features that enhance the user experience when searching for dark sky locations The app includes various mapping tools designed to assist users in finding the best routes to their desired destinations One key feature is the ability to find the closest dark site which simplifies trip planning for activities like stargazing camping or astrophotography Additionally the app provides point and area information moon info and brightness simulation tools that help users assess the suitability of different locations before embarking on their journeys The inclusion of multiple light pollution datasets allows users to switch between different views and choose the most appropriate one for their needs Furthermore the app supports offline functionality enabling users to cache data such as the World Atlas 2015 for use without an internet connection This feature combined with GPS integration ensures that users can plan their routes effectively even in areas with limited connectivity The intuitive interface with smooth controls and fullscreen mode makes navigation seamless while the clean privacy respecting design ensures a distraction free experience Overall these route planning capabilities coupled with the app's accurate light pollution data provide users with a powerful toolset for organizing their dark sky adventures