Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about finding and identifying constellations
How do I use this app?
Select your region from the dropdown menu at the top of the page. The app will show you up to 5 constellations currently visible in your night sky. When you spot a constellation, click "Found it!" to mark it and see the next one.
What does "Found it!" do?
When you click "Found it!", the constellation is marked as seen and moved to the bottom of your list. A new constellation (if available) will appear at the bottom of the unfound section. Your progress is saved in your browser, so you can track which constellations you've found over time.
How accurate are the constellation directions?
The directions (N, S, E, W) and altitudes are approximations based on your selected region and the current month. Exact positions vary by your specific latitude, time of night, and time of year. Use them as general guides to know where to look in the sky.
Why are some constellations missing graphics?
We're continuously adding SVG graphics for all 88 constellations. Currently, the most prominent and easily recognizable constellations have graphics. The constellation name and information are always available.
What do the star sizes mean?
The size of each dot in the constellation graphics corresponds to the actual brightness (magnitude) of the star. Larger dots represent brighter stars that are easier to spot in the night sky.
Can I reset my progress?
Yes! Click the "Reset" button in the top-right corner of the navigation bar to clear all found constellations and start fresh. This is useful for testing or if you want to start your constellation hunting journey over.
What time is best for stargazing?
The best time is typically 1-2 hours after sunset when it's fully dark. Avoid nights with a bright moon, and find a location away from city lights. The app shows "Best viewing time" for each constellation to help you plan.
Why are the constellation images upside down?
The constellations are oriented with the top toward the zenith (the middle of the sky directly above you). This matches how you'll actually see them when looking up at the night sky.
Does this work on mobile devices?
Yes! The app is fully responsive and works great on phones and tablets. You can even take it outside with you while stargazing. Just make sure to enable dark mode to preserve your night vision.
Where does the constellation data come from?
All constellation data is based on the International Astronomical Union's (IAU) official list of 88 constellations. Visibility data is calculated based on latitude ranges and seasonal visibility patterns used by astronomers worldwide.