Reference
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions that come up most often while using Sky Map 2000.
Do I need an account?
No. The sky map runs without an account. Settings your browser can keep stay on your device, so there is nothing to sign in to.
How does the map know where I am?
It does not assume your location. Pick a city, type coordinates or allow the browser to provide device location when prompted. The selected place is what feeds the local horizon and visibility calculations. See observer location for the full setup.
Why is my target below the horizon?
It may genuinely be below the geometric horizon at the selected place and moment. Check the location, date, time and time zone first. Even an object above the calculated horizon can still be hidden by a real building, tree, hill or cloud.
Can I use it to plan an observing session?
Yes. The observation planner compares objects against the chosen time and location. Take its list as a planning aid: local weather, light pollution, the surrounding horizon and your equipment still decide what you actually see. Read the planner guide before you rely on a shortlist.
Does it control a telescope?
No. Sky Map 2000 is an online star atlas for orientation, learning and planning. It does not send telescope-control commands and should not be used as a precision pointing system.
Can I keep or share a view?
Yes. Use the camera control to save the current map as a PNG. Set the intended location and time before exporting so the saved image stays meaningful later. The right-side Share button opens a dialog with a Copy link button and one-tap links to X, Facebook, Bluesky and email. More detail in night vision and export.
Where does the information come from?
The map combines named public catalogues with browser-side calculations. The principal sources and the limits of that approach are named in data, calculations and accuracy.