Astroweather

If you're passionate about stargazing, the Astronomy and Weather Toolkit, known as Astroweather, is your go-to resource for ensuring optimal viewing conditions. Astroweather specializes in providing weather forecasts tailored specifically for astronomical observations, helping you plan your nights under the stars with precision.

Astroweather leverages data from 7timer.org, a platform renowned for its weather prediction capabilities. This service integrates comprehensive astronomical weather forecasts along with detailed information on sunset/sunrise and moonrise/moonset times, making it an essential tool for any astronomer.

The forecasts provided by Astroweather are primarily derived from web-based meteorological products. These are based on the NOAA/NCEP's Global Forecast System (GFS), ensuring that the data you receive is both accurate and reliable.

The origins of 7Timer!, the backbone of Astroweather, trace back to July 2005. Initially launched as an experimental product under the support of the National Astronomical Observatories of China, it underwent significant upgrades in 2008 and 2011. Today, it is maintained by the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The founder, a dedicated stargazer, created this tool to address the challenges posed by unpredictable weather conditions, which can often disrupt astronomical observations.

Beyond its core forecasting services, Astroweather offers a range of additional features to enhance your stargazing experience:

1. Astronomical Event Forecast: Stay informed about upcoming celestial events, ensuring you never miss a spectacular sight in the night sky.
2. Light Pollution Map and Satellite Images: Access maps and images that help you identify the best locations for stargazing, away from the interference of city lights.
3. Rise and Set Times: Get precise timings for the rise and set of stars, planets, moons, and satellites, enabling you to plan your observations effectively.
4. Astronomy Forum: Engage with a community of fellow stargazers, share your experiences, and learn from others in the field.

With Astroweather, you're equipped with a comprehensive toolkit designed to make your stargazing sessions more successful and enjoyable, regardless of the weather.