In this article about the five free tools for viewing the solar system, we'll talk about applications for visualizing the planets, their moons, and other celestial objects in our solar system. With these different platforms, you can expand your knowledge about space or take a little tour of Jupiter and its moons. You can also learn more about our solar system through 3D visualization tools.
NASA's Eyes- interface
NASA's Eyes- interface is a great tool developed by NASA. With this application you will expand your knowledge about the planets, moons, and the various manned missions into space. Besides learning about the solar system, you can go further and explore the universe in a simple way, all in 3D. NASA's Eyes- interface is a free application and is available for Windows operating systems.
OpenUniverse
Next up is OpenUniverse, an application with 3D visualization. Its main feature is that you can travel from one planet to another, taking snapshots or video of your journey. You can either travel freely or use its browser to specify where you want to go. It also includes information about celestial bodies. OpenUniverse is a free application available for Windows and Linux.
Google Sky
Google Sky is a tool integrated into Google Earth that lets us view planets, constellations, stars, and other celestial bodies. Upon launching the platform, we can select the solar system (among other options) and choose the planet we want to visit. It features an extensive collection of satellite and telescope photographs, mainly from the Hubble, which make this a very good tool. Google Sky is a free web application that works perfectly in all web browsers.
Solar System Scope
Solar System Scope is an application that lets you view the solar system in 3D, with a very polished interface for navigating space. You'll also find useful information about the planets, their moons, and other celestial bodies. Solar System Scope is a free web application, and it is also available free for Android devices, while commercial versions exist for Windows and iOS.
3D Sistema Solar
We'll finish with a simple tool that certainly does its job. We're talking about 3D Sistema Solar Simulador, a 3D solar system simulator that shows all the planets and how they travel in their orbits. You can also learn about moons and other celestial bodies. If you're eager to learn more about our solar system, this tool will be a great help. 3D Sistema Solar Simulador is a free extension for the Chrome web browser.
If you're a fan of exploring outer space and the five tools for exploring the solar system were helpful to you, we recommend reading our selections of applications to enjoy the universe and how to observe the sky with the naked eye.
