Category: Development

SkyORB ∞ and the Evolution of SkyORB 2021

Exciting developments are underway in the world of SkyORB as we embark on a journey of innovation and enhancement for both SkyORB ∞ and SkyORB 2021.

SkyORB ∞: A Sneak Peek into the Future

In the realm of possibilities, SkyORB ∞ is currently in beta testing, teasing astronomy enthusiasts with its upcoming release scheduled for December 21st. A unique offering on day one will be the App Clip, providing users with an exclusive preview of what’s to come. Due to size limitations, this clip will resemble the Apple Watch version and comes at a minimal cost, eliminating ads and subscriptions.

Noteworthy in SkyORB ∞ is the introduction of deep link support. This feature empowers users to open the app directly to specific pages, such as the sky chart or moon phase. Ideal for educators, this functionality simplifies planetarium demonstrations, offering ease of use and scripted demos.

SkyORB 2021: Transition to Long Term Service (LTS)

SkyORB 2021 undergoes a significant transformation as it transitions into 2021 LTS (Long Term Service). This move ensures ongoing updates to maintain compatibility with the latest devices and adhere to Apple Store regulations.

LTS 1 has already made its debut on the Apple Store, featuring support for the latest iOS version. The macOS version will follow suit in November, bringing along a rewritten Apple Watch version optimized for the newest devices, updated fonts, an enhanced sun clock page, and minor bug fixes.

Further enhancements are in the pipeline with the imminent release of LTS 2, addressing minor planet data processing issues and introducing a ‘recovery’ mode in app settings.

A Glimpse of the Future: SkyORB ∞ Preview Event

Mark your calendars for the app event scheduled in December under LTS 3, offering users an exclusive preview of SkyORB ∞. This event also serves as a moment of gratitude as we express appreciation for the unwavering support spanning over 12 years since the inception of SkyORB for iOS.

Why Upgrade to SkyORB ∞?

SkyORB ∞ presents a host of compelling features for users considering an upgrade. Experience a completely redesigned interface, faster launch times, 3D orbits for satellites and comets, an enriched astronomer’s page, detailed planetary information, improved notifications, a new Apple Watch version, an extensive constellation list, the innovative “point and sky” feature with two gnomonic projections, updated altazimuth rendering, a schedule of rare planetary events, daily astronomy events, an expanded list of dwarf planets, and a revamped 3D rendering of planets.

The celestial journey continues with SkyORB, promising an unparalleled experience for astronomy enthusiasts.

18th Of September 2023

The SkyORB Watch app has come a long way since its inception with WatchOS 1.0. In its earlier days, it relied on a dated UI system, which posed its fair share of challenges. However, with the advent of modern technology and software frameworks, it was time for a significant transformation.

Enter SkyORB Infinite, which marks a pivotal shift in the SkyORB Watch app’s evolution. It underwent a complete overhaul, embracing SwiftUI starting from iOS 13 and WatchOS 6, and seamlessly integrating with the latest iOS 15 and Watch OS 10. This move brought forth a slew of enhancements and a more streamlined user experience.

Real-time Updates: SkyORB Infinite now offers real-time updates for settings, ensuring that you always have the most accurate information at your fingertips.

Simplified Interface: We’ve condensed all the essential celestial information into a single, user-friendly page. You’ll find comprehensive data on the sun’s coordinates, moon’s coordinates, moon phases, and the positions of visible planets—all in one place.

Streamlined Design: In the interest of clarity and simplicity, we decided to remove watch complications that were deemed less useful in the new and improved SkyORB Watch app.

Enhanced Compatibility: SkyORB Infinite extends its support to larger Apple Watch models, optimizing the user experience across a range of devices.

French Localization: For our French-speaking users, we’re delighted to announce full support for the French language, making the app accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience.

As technology continues to evolve, so does SkyORB. Our commitment to delivering an exceptional stargazing experience remains unwavering. With SkyORB Infinite, we’ve not only adapted to the latest advancements but also enhanced your ability to explore the cosmos effortlessly.

The SkyORB 2021 LTS Watch app underwent a significant rewrite to align with iOS 17 and accommodate the evolving landscape of WatchOS. After ten versions of WatchOS, the older code was no longer compatible with the latest SDK. This rewrite was an opportunity to start fresh, resulting in an identical experience with a touch of refinement. Thanks to SwiftUI and improved translations, you’ll find the SkyORB Watch app to be a delightful companion for your celestial journeys.

Get ready to rediscover the cosmos with SkyORB Infinite, where the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.

11th Of September 2023

After a year-long hiatus since December 2021, we are thrilled to announce the return of SkyORB. Over the years, our app has been a reliable companion for astronomy enthusiasts, but it was time for a fresh start. We recognized that our mobile interface had its limitations, and we were determined to enhance your stargazing experience.

With SkyORB Infinite, we have undertaken a complete redesign, focusing on clarity and usability. We’ve restructured the app into three distinct sections: Notifications, Your Location, and the Astronomy Catalog. Gone are the rows of icons cluttering your screen; instead, you’ll find clean, text-based options that maximize your screen real estate. SkyORB Infinite adapts seamlessly to various devices, from phones and tablets to desktops.

Under the hood, we’ve made significant improvements. The Skychart now features an advanced 2D mode, complete with constellation boundaries that were previously absent. You can choose from three different projection modes and enjoy a new night mode. Plus, SkyORB Infinite harnesses the power of ARKit for automatic location detection.

Our 3D celestial bodies have received a makeover too. We’ve incorporated new textures and introduced physical-based rendering. Notably, we’ve added many of the moons and dwarf planets that were missing before. Dwarf planets now have dedicated sections, and each planet boasts a comprehensive page with detailed information.

Tracking comets and satellites has never been easier. The orbital elements for these celestial objects, introduced in 2021, are now presented in a stunning 3D format. You can select them individually or as groups, eliminating the need to manually sync databases.

Our 3D star map and catalog have also undergone extensive improvements. Each celestial object now has its dedicated page, complete with properties, orbital data, and topocentric coordinates. We’ve reimagined the time shift feature, enhancing it compared to SkyORB 2021.

While we’ve introduced exciting changes, we’ve temporarily removed the 3D slider, the Milky Way, 3D views of the International Space Station (ISS), and the asteroid belt. But fear not, these features will make a triumphant return in the coming year.

One more thing: SkyORB now speaks French! Astronomy news is available in both English and French, and our notifications have received significant upgrades.

We can’t wait for you to experience the new and improved SkyORB Infinite. The cosmos awaits your exploration!”