Free Astronomy Software: Virtual Moon Atlas

The Moon is the closest celestial object in our sky.  Although it may seem like a simple sphere there are many features on it that can be observed from Earth.  In order to correctly identify them a Moon atlas is required.  I have the Atlas of the Moon book by Antonín Rükl that provides an amazing profile of all the areas on the front side of the Moon.  You can access a version of this book online at the following link.

http://www.refractorland.org/HMA/Moon_Map.htm

There is a free software package online that can be downloaded which provides an excellent interactive map of the Moon.  It is called Virtual Moon Atlas and I am just learning some of the great things that can be done with it.  A link to the program is provided below.

https://www.ap-i.net/avl/en/start

You can download associated image databases to view some of the amazing photography amateurs around the world have done.  The main screen of the program is shown below.

Virtual Moon Atlas

It can be zoomed in to see greater details.

Virtual Moon Atlas (Zoom)

You can add your own image database and customize a journal of your observations.  The current phase of the Moon can be shown and suggested targets along the terminator are displayed.

A great function of the program is that it can show you the libration of the Moon.  The libration is essentially its 'wobble' occurring due to its elliptical orbit.  Depending on its current libration you can see further to the East or West.  The video below shows the phases of the Moon throughout 2018.  Notice it seems to tilt East and West to show a greater degree in either direction throughout the year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBWeSN66z9M

Distances on the Moon can be easily measured using the Virtual Moon Atlas.  Also, similar to Cartes Du Ciel, eyepiece target windows can be placed on the image.  This helps to choose the correct eyepiece for what you would like to observe.  A complete encyclopedic write-up is provided for the objects on the Moon that you can access just by clicking on the feature of interest.

Textures can be downloaded to overlay historical mapping of the Moon from centuries ago or up to date information from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter.  The information from the LRO allows for amazing closeup shots.  Plato is again shown below.

Virtual Moon Atlas (High Zoom)

If you have a mild curiosity about the Moon or are a dedicated selenographer this program will be useful.  It is also free!  Check it out and learn more about our closest neighbour!