SkyTools
Frequently Asked Questions
Can
SkyTools be purchased as a download?
SkyTools
requires a large (600+ MB) database to run. The Extended
data for the Professional edition is 4.8 GB in size. At
this time this is too large to be a practical download from our
server. For this reason SkyTools is offered on CDROM/DVD.
Why
is there no trial/demo version of SkyTools?
SkyTools
uses integrated databases, all of which are required for the
program to work. Because the databases are so large a download
is impractical at this time. We would
have to supply a trial version on CDROM/DVD. Instead,
Skyhound simply offers a 30-day money-back guarantee; if you are
unhappy for any reason you may return the software for a full
refund within 30 days of purchase.
Can
SkyTools be run without the CD/DVD in the drive?
Yes.
The databases on the CD can be optionally copied to your hard
drive during installation or via the SkyTools Preferences
dialog. After that, the CD is no longer required to be in
the drive. The extended data that comes with the
Professional Edition on DVD must be installed on the hard drive
for use.
Is
SkyTools kept up to date and are program updates free?
Yes.
SkyTools is kept up to date with bug fixes and minor tweaks.
What
are the minimum system requirements for SkyTools?
Click here for the answer.
What
is your upgrade policy when a new major version (e.g. SkyTools 4)
is released?
Our
upgrade policy is to offer owners of any previous version of
SkyTools an upgrade to the latest version at half price.
Those who can show that they purchased SkyTools in the six
months prior to the release of a new major version qualify for
an at cost upgrade (usually about $12).
Can
SkyTools be installed on more than one computer?
Yes.
Our license agreement allows the purchaser to install SkyTools
on more than one machine, such as a desktop at home and a laptop
to be taken into the field.
Can
SkyTools be returned for a refund if I am not satisfied?
Yes.
SkyTools can be returned for a full refund (less shipping)
within 30 days of receipt for any reason.
Is
SkyTools appropriate for a beginner?
Yes,
although it probably isn't appropriate for young children or
those with no knowledge of astronomy whatsoever. SkyTools
can in fact be quite useful to the beginning observer because it
can answer the question, "What can I see in my telescope
from my backyard tonight?"
Will
SkyTools run on a Mac?
Not
directly, but it does run (and is supported) on the Mac under PC
emulators such as VirtualPC.
If
I have a question, is support provided?
Yes.
Questions can be directed to the SkyTools
discussion group or directly to Skyhound by email or
telephone. Questions are usually answered promptly.
Using
SkyTools, is it easy to keep up with the latest comets, novae,
supernovae and close-approaching minor planets?
All it
takes is a click to download a set of SkyTools observing lists
that contain the latest comets, novae, supernovae and
interesting minor planets currently visible in most amateur
instruments.
Does
SkyTools work in the southern hemisphere?
Yes.
SkyTools works for any location on earth and the database covers
the entire sky, not just what is visible from the northern
hemisphere.
Are
there many observing lists available to use with SkyTools?
Yes.
We have a depository of nearly 200 observing lists that include
alignment stars for popular telescopes, various AL observing
awards such as the Herschel 400, double stars, lists of objects
to accompany books, magazine articles, etc.
Can
I make my own observing lists with SkyTools?
Yes.
Add objects by their designation or use the powerful database
search engine to find objects to add to your custom lists.
Can
SkyTools control my telescope?
In
most cases, yes. The Real
Time tool includes a telescope interface for most
telescopes. Real Time is included as part of the
Professional Edition. It is a separately purchased add-on
to the standard edition.
Can
SkyTools simulate my telescope?
Yes.
SkyTools comes with a large listing of telescopes and eyepieces
to choose from. And if your instrument or eyepiece isn't
listed you can easily create it.
Can
SkyTools simulate my camera?
Yes.
The Professional edition of SkyTools comes with a large listing
of telescopes and cameras to choose from. And if your
instrument or camera isn't listed you can easily create it.
Can
I use SkyTools to make charts, calendars, event lists, etc. for
my web site or club newsletter?
Yes.
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