Help - FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is eZipSky Interactive free?
- Is eZipSky available in countries other than the US?
- What objects are supported?
- Why doesn't eZipSky always give me detailed viewing instructions for the object I entered?
- How long does it take to receive a text message response from the eZipSky Interactive SkyEngine?
- What are the "fist and finger rules"?
1. Is eZipSky Interactive free?
Yes, eZipSky provides the SkyEngine for free both by cell phone text messaging and on the web. However, your cell phone carrier may charge for sending or receiving text messages.
2. Is eZipSky available in countries other than the US?
The web interface to the eZipSky Interactive SkyEngine works both in the US (with zip code) and in the UK (with postal code). Currently the cell phone text message interface is available only in the US, though we have plans to add an international service. We are also planning on allowing users to specify their latitude and longitude so that the service will work around the world. You can email info
ezipsky.com if you would like to be notified when eZipSky becomes available in your country.
3. What objects are supported?
Pretty much anything you can see with your naked eye in the sky, including the planets, the 150 brightest stars, the 120 brightest satellites, the International Space Station, the Hubble Space Telescope, and more. We'll be adding a complete list soon.
4. Why doesn't eZipSky always give me detailed viewing instructions for the object I entered?
eZipSky calculates all object visibilities in real-time. For example, if you try to get viewing instructions for Jupiter during the daytime or before it has risen you will be instructed the times when Jupiter is next visible so that you can try back then. For example, texting
ezipsky 11733 jupiter
during the day might give
Look for the planet Jupiter after sunset tonight at 20:26 and
before it sets due WSW tomorrow morning at 3:11. Try back
then for more info.
Texting the same thing between 20:26 and 3:11 however would give something like:
To see the planet Jupiter, face WSW and look 26 deg above the
horizon.
5. How long does it take to receive a text message response from the eZipSky Interactive SkyEngine?
You should usually receive a response in a few seconds, but delivery times depend on your carrier so sometimes messages may be delayed.
6. What are the "fist and finger rules"?
The finger and fist rule is a way to approximate angular distances on the night sky. If you hold your arm out straight in front of you, then your entire fist (from thumb to little finger) spans roughly 10 degrees, the tip of your pointer spans roughly 1 degree, and the tip of your little finger spans roughly 1/2 degree.
