Sky Map

Sky Map is the open-source astronomy Android app built for the community.

FAQ

Is this Google Sky Map?

It was originally!

Sky Map has a long history, launching as Google Sky Map on the very first Android phone at Searchology 2009. In 2011 Google ceased active support and the original developers open-sourced it with Google's permission. Google's Open Source Programs Office kindly allowed development to continue as a personal project, provided Google's branding was removed and Google's resources were not used. Today it is still maintained by the same folks. Although they no longer work for Google, development of Sky Map continues using their own resources.

Then what is stardroid?

"Stardroid" was the internal name — it can still be seen used as an identifier in the code. Back in the day Google's lawyercats were concerned that 'stardroid' might attract the wrath of, let's say, followers of the Dark Side of the Force, so the team was strongly encouraged not to call it that. Plus, Google likes to name products after what they are (Photos, Calendar, Docs...). So, Sky Map it is.

Why does it lack feature X or look so dated?

Android has evolved significantly since 2009. While most of the code has been rewritten since its Google days, the architecture reflects its origins. A complete modernization of the app is currently in progress. In the meantime, the community of users who still find joy in its simplicity and quirks continues to be an inspiration.

License

Stardroid is licensed under the Apache License 2.0.