AstroGrav 5.0 Released for Windows and Mac

AstroGrav adds many new features and improvements to its precision solar system simulator

4th October 2023 - AstroGrav 5.0 includes a new evolution algorithm, a much improved ephemeris generator, and completely revised and reorganized sample simulations. Locations for viewing and ephemerides have been extended to include locations on the Sun, Moon, and planets, and there are many other improvements and bug fixes. Full details are available from:

Main Improvements

The most significant improvement in AstroGrav 5.0 is a new evolution algorithm, which is much more accurate than any of its predecessors, and which contains several bug fixes and performance improvements. The ephemeris generator has also been improved, with ephemeris windows enhanced to have multiple tabs, with the first tab showing the current ephemeris data for every object, and the other tabs showing ephemerides for individual objects. The surface locations used for viewing and ephemerides have also been enhanced to allow locations on the Sun, Moon, and planets, instead of just locations on the Earth. The locations of all successful landings on the Moon, Mars, and Venus have been added to the default set of locations.

Sample Simulations

The sample simulations have been completely revised and reorganized. Many new sample simulations have been added, so that there are now a total of 89 of them, providing great ideas for investigating and exploring AstroGrav's capabilities. Simulations of the 14/10/2023 annular eclipse of the Sun and the 08/04/24 total eclipse of the Sun are included, with each simulating the progress of the eclipse as seen from 12 different locations. Other new simulations include one that shows the track followed by the Earth as seen from the Apollo 11 landing site, and a fascinating simulation of a transit of Jupiter and its Galilean moons as seen from Saturn.

Other Improvements

Two Line Elements (TLEs) are now supported, with the addition of the 'mean motion' to the choice of orbital elements that are used when adding or editing objects. Date units now show the time zone where appropriate, instead of just displaying 'local time', and nutation has been added to the Earth's precession. Several user operations have been speeded up, particularly the opening of simulations. Many other minor improvements and bug fixes complete this major upgrade.

Upgrade

The AstroGrav 5.0 update is free of charge, and may be downloaded and installed immediately from:

About AstroGrav Astronomy Software

AstroGrav Astronomy Software produces astronomical and gravity simulation software for astronomers, researchers, educationalists, and students. For more information, visit the company's website:

Press Contact:
Russell Calvert
AstroGrav Astronomy Software
russcalvert@astrograv.co.uk

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