Astronomy is derived from the Greek words “star” and “knowledge of a field of study.” Astronomy is the study of celestial phenomena and bodies, such as stars, as well as various qualities and events relating to these phenomena and bodies, such as their position, size, motion, formation, and so on. Astronomy software is computer applications used by astronomers specifically for work in their field. Astronomers are both amateurs and professionals who engage in the study of astronomy. There are many different types of astronomy software, but planetarium programs, CCD (charge-coupled device) camera control programs, telescope control programs, and Astronomical Image Processing (AIP) programs are some of the most popular. Astronomy software is available in a wide range of price points, from free open-source applications to shareware to commercial software that costs hundreds of dollars (USD).
Planetarium shows can cover as much of the sky as possible or focus on a specific aspect of space exploration, such as a planet, moon, or group of moons. Some programs are limited to a single operating system, while others are cross-platform. Some software companies offer versions for students, serious astronomers, and professionals, with the serious astronomers most likely being amateurs. Planetarium programs can display graphical representations of the sky from various points on Earth over a long period of time, allowing users to print a map for stargazing or see the sky as Galileo did. Some planetarium programs include telescope control, and multiple databases are frequently accessed.
CCD camera control programs and telescope control programs can be used separately, together, or as part of astronomy software that includes other features, such as image processing. CCD cameras are digital cameras that convert light into an electrical charge, with the pixels being processed by an ADC (analog-to-digital converter). The image is saved to a memory device and displayed on a liquid-crystal display (LCD) monitor. Telescope control, which can be remote or robotic, tests the telescope’s mounting and provides tracking control. AIP programs are used to reduce image noise, clean up images, and enhance them. They may also help with the common practice of image stacking in astronomical images to improve the signal-to-noise ratio.