How to use the Gravity Sky Map?

How to use the Gravity Sky Map?

This interactive map transforms the way you explore the night sky. Whether you’re planning your next observation, learning your way around constellations, or trying to spot a specific celestial object, the Gravity sky map is built to guide you every step of the way.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make the most of it — from navigating the sky to selecting your targets and syncing with your Hestia telescope. Let’s get started.

1. Open the Sky Map from the Gravity App

The sky map is located in the bottom navigation bar of the app. Just tap the constellation icon (replacing the old star icon) to open it. The map will automatically show the sky above your location and time.
You can zoom and move around freely to explore different parts of the sky, just like you would on a regular map.
 

2. Customize Your View

Want to see more or less on your screen? Tap the display options button to toggle these elements on or off:
  1. Atmosphere
  2. Landscape
  3. Constellation lines
  4. Grid overlay
 
You can also change the displayed time using the time settings slider. Go forward or backward by 24 hours to plan your observations. A white bar shows daylight hours, while a grey one indicates true night conditions .

3. Choose Your Navigation Mode: Free or Hestia

There are two modes available when using the sky map:
  1. Free Mode - Explore the night sky manually by zooming and panning.
  2. Hestia Mode - Shows where your telescope is pointing, using your smartphone’s sensors and astrometry data. This is only available when your phone is properly mounted on Hestia.


Tip: Once a successful astrometry has been performed, the map overlays the actual field of view of Hestia (in blue) to help you accurately locate your target.

4. Select an Object to Observe

You can select a celestial object directly from the map by tapping on it or use the catalog located at the top of the screen.
Important:
  1. Not all objects displayed are visible through Hestia.
  2. Objects that are best suited for observation with Hestia are outlined in orange.
  3. Each selected object displays its visibility, altitude, and interest level (0 to 3 stars) at the bottom of the screen.


5. Start Observing

When ready, tap “Observe” to launch the observation session.
What happens next:
  1. Your app switches to camera mode.
  2. Astrometry is performed if needed.
  3. Once successful, you can refine alignment in camera view or return to the map.
Your selected object will now be tracked by Hestia, and you’re ready to capture.

6. Understand the Field of View

Once astrometry is successful, the blue circle on the sky map represents Hestia’s field of view. Its position is adjusted based on either the compass (before astrometry) or real alignment afterward.
This helps you:
  1. Verify alignment accuracy
  2. Know what’s inside your frame before capturing
  3. Easily reframe your target if needed

Bonus: Access In-App Tutorials

Need help? Tap the “i” icon at the top right of the sky map to access 4 interactive tutorials. You can also find them in Settings > Tutorials.


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