Frequently Asked Questions
- Where's the iPad version?
Planned for release this year.
- Adding shower alert does not show up or app freezes
There appears to be possible issue(s) with adding an alert under iOS 5. Try setting your default calendar (under the general section of Settings) to something other than Gmail or Exchange. This has corrected the issue in several cases. I have seen reference to a bug in iOS 5.0.1 when an event with two reminders is added (like Meteor Shower Guide does) causing the app to freeze. The next iOS release should fix that problem.
- Can you add weather information?
No. There are other fine apps for that.
Serious observers don't rely on a simple weather forecast anyway. We use the Clear Sky Chart along with Satellite and Water Vapor images for a better idea of what the night sky will be like. - Why can't I look past 2029?
The forecasts accuracy would get progressively worse further into the future (or past). The algorithm used to convert solar longitude to a date only works well for a few decades centered around J2000. However, with version 1.2 of Meteor Shower Guide, you can continue to advance in years by tapping Next Catalog year.
- What is the Advanced Catalog?
The Advanced Catalog includes the AMS Weak Meteor shower list (Class IV meteor showers) that are very weak. That means you might only see one per hour, only an experienced observer would be out watching for that!
Further Reading
Recommended sources for meteor shower information on the web:
- American Meteorological Society Here you will find up to date information and news on upcoming meteor showers. The most comprehensive collection of fireball reports as well.
- International Meteor Organization One of the most interesting features found on the IMO website is the live updates when major meteor showers are happening.
- Meteor Showers Online Great introductory material and one of the best sites for historical meteor shower information.
- Space Weather Up to date news and information when major showers are happening, as well as solar activity and other night sky events.
Designed for the iPhone running iOS version 4.0 and higher. Compatible with the iPad and iPod. No Internet connection required. What good is an app that needs a connection when you're in the middle of nowhere without a signal?
