Create Custom Horizon Files for AstroPlanner

Create Custom Horizon Files for AstroPlanner

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Setting Up Astro Planner 2.1. Using the Theodolite App 2.2. Shooting the Horizon 2.3. Emailing the Horizon Data 2.4. Saving and Modifying the Data File
3. Importing the Horizon File into Astro Planner 3.1. Opening Astro Planner 3.2. Clearing the Previous Horizon File 3.3. Importing the Modified Data File 3.4. Sorting and Configuring the Horizon Data
4. Conclusion

A Beginner's Guide to Setting Up and Importing a Horizon File in Astro Planner

Introduction

Welcome to this beginner's guide on how to set up and import a horizon file in Astro Planner. Are You an astronomy enthusiast looking to enhance your stargazing experience? Do you want to know when and where specific celestial objects will rise and set? With the help of Astro Planner and a theodolite app, you can Create your own horizon file and import it into Astro Planner for accurate and personalized stargazing predictions. Let's dive into the step-by-step process!

Setting Up Astro Planner

2.1. Using the Theodolite App

To begin the setup process, you will need a theodolite app installed on your device. Open the app, and you will see a level on the left-HAND side of the screen for aligning your device. At the bottom, there is an azimuth feature to determine compass directions. On the right, you can find the altitude setting for measuring the Height of your aim.

2.2. Shooting the Horizon

Start shooting the horizon by aiming your device in the desired direction. Begin from due North or 0° on the azimuth and touch the "add data" screen whenever the horizon changes Shape or altitude. This step involves capturing multiple data points along the horizon, including valleys and treetops.

2.3. Emailing the Horizon Data

Once you have completed shooting the horizon, click on the "mail" button in the app. This will bring up your device's email settings. Enter your email address and send the horizon data to yourself. You will receive an email with the horizon file as an attachment.

2.4. Saving and Modifying the Data File

Open the email with the horizon file and save it in a location you can easily find. Open the file and delete all unnecessary columns, leaving only the azimuth and lower columns. Ensure the first azimuth setting reads 0° and the last one reads 360°. Save the file in comma-separated value (.csv) format and store it with a recognizable name.

Importing the Horizon File into Astro Planner

3.1. Opening Astro Planner

Launch Astro Planner on your device. You will see a list of targets in your observing list. Before importing the horizon file, you may need to delete any duplicate targets.

3.2. Clearing the Previous Horizon File

Navigate to "Edit" and then select "Resources." Find the horizon file section and double-click to clear any previous horizon files.

3.3. Importing the Modified Data File

Right-click and select "Import." Locate the modified horizon file you prepared, and click "OK." The new horizon file will now appear in Astro Planner.

3.4. Sorting and Configuring the Horizon Data

To sort and configure the horizon data, you have the option to set the time and visibility parameters. By sorting the data Based on altitude and visibility, you can easily identify which objects are visible at a given time. This feature allows you to plan your stargazing activities efficiently.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully set up and imported your own horizon file into Astro Planner. With your personalized horizon file, you can now explore the skies with precise information on when and where celestial objects will appear and disappear. Enjoy an enhanced stargazing experience and uncover the wonders of the Universe!