When comparing Google Sky Map vs SkySafari 4 , the Slant community recommends Google Sky Map for most people. In the question“What is the best stargazing app for Android?” Google Sky Map is ranked 3rd while SkySafari 4 is ranked 6th. The most important reason people chose Google Sky Map is:
For users who are looking for a particular planet, star, or constellation, all other listings in the app can be disabled except for the target.
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Layers can be chosen
For users who are looking for a particular planet, star, or constellation, all other listings in the app can be disabled except for the target.
Pro Clearly lists what is being viewed
When the phone is aimed at a certain star, the name of the star (or stars) will come up on the screen. This app lists names of stars, constellations, and planets.
Pro Search function for finding specific objects
As long as the name of the star or planet is known, it can be found using this app. It is much easier to find an object using the in-app search function than trying to locate it based on other stars or planets. Once the object is searched, an arrow will be displayed that directs the user to the right location in the sky.
Pro Shows smaller objects
Users can view asteroids, satellites, comets, and meteor showers with information included.
Pro Detailed search function
Objects can be found according to name, magnitude, number, Ra, and other attributes.
Pro Highly informative
The app has historical mythological and scientific information on hundreds of objects. Over 120,000 stars can be viewed, near star clusters, nebulas, galaxies, and major planets and moons in our solar system.
Pro Can simulate changes of celestial bodies over time
The app is capable of simulating movement up 100 years in the future and past.
Pro Adds a subscription to SkyWeek, Sky & Telescope
SkyWeek, Sky & Telescope's subscription inform of upcoming eclipses and meteor showers.
Pro Various events can be animated
Events such as eclipses, meteor showers conjunctions and transits can be animated.
Cons
Con Requires GPS to be activated
Sky Map won't work without GPS.
Con Hard to navigate
Depending on the environment, Sky Map can be hard to use because of the app's controls and the current visibility.
Con Paid Plus or PRO of app only for current version
Payment of Plus or PRO app is active only for current version (f.e. v.5). Next version (v.6) has to be paid again.
Con Might overwhelm a casual stargazer
There's a lot of information and functionality in this app that might be a bit too much for a beginner astronomy enthusiast.