WorldWide Telescope public beta available for download

wwt_icon1 Microsoft has just released a public beta of the WorldWide Telescope.

"The WorldWide Telescope (WWT) is a Web 2.0 visualization software environment that enables your computer to function as a virtual telescope—bringing together imagery from the best ground and space-based telescopes in the world for a seamless exploration of the universe."

You can download it from here for PC and Mac (with Boot Camp and Windows). Requires .NET 2.0 and DirectX.

First try

I tried the WWT very briefly and initial reaction was a bit "meh", but the more I played it, the more I liked the experience. I didn’t have  time to try all the features, but I like the intuitive navigation and "flying effect", when choosing destinations. It’s easy to find familiar destinations through collections and cool just to explore randomly.

It is a really nice experience for those interested in astronomy and a very good learning tool. There are many community options to share tours etc.

Here are some screens:

Orion Nebula Saturn Finder Scope (right-click)

Yes, this is the product that made Scoble cry :)

Leave a Reply