Stellarium

This is useful for stargazing, teaching and preparing observations with binoculars or telescope. It suits you if you want to learn to recognize objects and movements. The simulation does not replace up-to-date information about clouds or the conditions at your own observation site.

First, set your location, date and time correctly. Then find a recognizable object and compare the direction with the real sky.

A set location can reveal your living or sighting spot when you share configurations or screenshots. If necessary, use a nearby general location. Additional catalogues and plug-ins can request network access. Only enable extensions that you need for your observations.

Your view outside also depends on clouds, light pollution and obstacles. The simulation is not a weather forecast.

A displayed object is not visible to the naked eye under all circumstances. Brightness, light pollution and your equipment determine what you can actually perceive. Never use the sun's display as an indication that you can look at it without appropriate protection by optical equipment.

Stellarium is suitable if you want to see which stars, planets and other celestial objects are visible from a certain place and time. You get a simulated sky with which you can prepare a observation session. The outcome depends on correct settings. A wrong time zone or location can give a convincing picture that doesn't match what you see outside.

Choose Stellarium mainly to recognize objects and prepare an observation from your own location. First compare a known bright object with the real sky. For a session outside also buildings on the horizon and weather count. The simulation provides context, but those local conditions help determine what you can actually see.