Universe Sandbox
Posted on August 1, 2008 - Filed Under Astronomy, General, Links, News, Software
While looking for new Astronomy software a few weeks ago I stumbled upon a great piece of software called Universe Sandbox. Developed by Dan Dixon, Universe Sandbox is an “interactive space simulator” that allows you to play with the universe as if you were it’s creator.
Want to see what would happen if the moon had a ring of debris and watch Earths gravity distort it? Explode a planet? Simulate a Galaxy collision? Create a custom galaxy? If you can imagine doing things like this, Universe Sandbox gives you the tools to simulate it.
The interface is clean, intuitive and simple. Novice users can pick it up and start playing within minutes thanks to a variety of built-in scenarios listed in the “Fun Things To Do” section of the main menu. Advanced users can get lost (in a good way) within the advanced functions called up by right clicking on a scene in the main window.
Universe Sandbox can teach you about gravity and the forces that effect our universe and let you have fun while doing it. One of the first things I did with Universe Sandbox was open the Star Size comparison scenario to show my son Travis just how small the Earth is when sitting next to a massive star like Antares. You really get a sense of scale while doing this and it’s impressive.
I have literally spent hours playing with Universe Sandbox, and have enjoyed every second. It’s amazing to see what one dedicated developer can do is such a short amount of time. Dan has been great supporting the product as issues crop up, and he has been quick to fix anything outstanding.
Dan Dixon has an interesting price plan for Universe Sandbox. You basically pay what you think it is worth, but recommended payment is $25.
Screenshots are available here and you can view a video of features on the Universe Sandbox main page.
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