A lot of people like Astronomy. Some are serious scientists who study it for a living,

or who even teach it. Others are merely hobbyists who enjoy it. A number of amazing discoveries have been made by amateurs. For the longest time telescopes or at least binocular were the tools of choice. But now thanks to astronomy software, everyone with a computer can take part in this interesting and at times exciting endeavor. This is a discussion of just some of the available software.

SETI@Home home is very popular. Launched in May of 1999 this was a project to create a virtual supercomputer, made up of large numbers of Internet connected home computers. SETI, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, scanned through space with a radio telescope seeking intelligent patterns. the data were analyzed with supercomputers. But now it's all being done during the spare cycles on people's computers at home and the office. People at home won't be having discussions with aliens when they're found. But if SETI ever does find intelligence, then everyone who was part of SETI@Home can say they played a role.

3-D screen savers are a more basic type of astronomy software. With this software during idle time your computer can show vivid 3D worlds. This can be as simple as an image or an actual 3D representation you can navigate. A search engine like Google can help you locate one of these programs.

Most people don't know about F.I.T.S. It's Flexible Image Transport System, which is a NASA and IAU endorsed format to store and deliver not only images but spacial data and multi-dimensional arrays such as 2-D and 3-D images. It's used in a lot of software. These include freeware and software for sale. Google can help you find more. Some are listed at Duke University's web site: http://www.phy.duke.edu/~kolena/imagepro.html.

There is even software that helps adjust for imperfections in telescope lenses. The software displays images that help the hobbyist adjust the telescope.

Astronomy software is as varied as the universe. Download some and have fun.