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Aladin Desktop vs WorldWide Telescope: catalog facts
Aladin Desktop	WorldWide Telescope
Free Free download from the CDS; the source code is also published.	Free Free and open source.
macOS	Web
Access to over 20,000 survey and catalogue collections Direct links to Simbad, VizieR and other archives	Large collection of sky imagery in the browser Guided tours with narration and slides
Aimed at astronomers, with a steep learning curve for casual users Most features depend on online data services	Needs a fast internet connection Interface can feel dense for newcomers
Downloadable app	Web application
Closed source	Open source
License not stated	License not stated
No account needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Needs internet
Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 2, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 2, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.