Compare software

Cartes du Ciel (SkyChart)Stellarium
Free

Free software under the GPL.

 Free

Free and open source under the GPL 2.0, funded by donations and sponsorship.

Windows, macOS, Linux Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
  • Uses many star and deep-sky catalogues
  • Shows planets, asteroids and comets
  • Accurate sky for any location, date and time
  • Simulates the view through binoculars, telescopes and specific eyepieces
  • The number of settings can overwhelm casual stargazers
  • Interface is functional rather than polished
  • The three-dimensional rendering needs a reasonable graphics card
  • Default catalogues are limited until you download the extra ones
Downloadable app Downloadable app
Open source Open source
License: GPL License: GPL-2.0
No account needed No account needed
Works offline Works offline

Checked October 2, 2026

Checked September 21, 2026

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