What is the best space exploration/discovery software?

[Ande]

Just wondered if any of you were using any packages that were able to show the beauty, and scale of the universe? I don’t mean Stellarium or Sky Safari etc. I do have both of those, and they are invaluable for showing what’s where etc. But they are, to me, merely practical, as opposed to being particularly entertaining.

I’ve just become aware of Space Engine, which looks incredible. And it’s very reasonably priced too, and available on Steam. But, before I splash out, are there any similar options for me to consider? My absolute dream would be to have something like this in VR, but accept that it is pretty unlikely.

 

[Ricochet]

Have you tried Celestia? 

[Ande]

I’ll have a peep. There was also one called Sandbox Universe, or something like that.  I did a bit of Googling, and, as ever, it seems they all have their strengths and weaknesses. I shall dig deeper 😀

[Waddensky]

Space Engine is great. It supports different kinds of VR headsets and the new nebula rendering engine is breathtaking. You can also build and control spaceships, which is really great to understand orbital mechanics. I'm not really sure, but it's possible that an older stand-alone version is still available as a free download. 

Celestia is free, but no longer maintained if I recall correctly. 

Edited January 14, 2021 by Waddensky

[Ande]

14 minutes ago, Waddensky said:

Space Engine is great. It supports different kinds of VR headsets and the new nebula rendering engine is breathtaking. You can also build and control spaceships, which is really great to understand orbital mechanics. I'm not really sure, but it's possible that an older stand-alone version is still available as a free download. 

Celestia is free, but no longer maintained as I recall correctly. 

Thank you. I’ve just been reading the reviews on Steam.  10/10 and people comparing it to a god-like experience. Unfortunately, I’m working away from home for a while. The second I get back I shall be all over this 🙂