Sky-watching app that merges astronomy, aviation and spaceflight tracking
Point your phone at the sky to identify stars, planes, satellites and rocket launches using Skopos's augmented reality overlay and live trackers. Developed by NSF Labs New System Forge Labs, the app combines AR identification, satellite and aircraft tracking, a rocket launch calendar and a Tonight planner into a single education-reference tool. It is aimed at astronomy fans, amateur stargazers and plane spotters who want a consolidated, location-aware reference for events overhead.
What you can do with Skopos right away
Skopos identifies sky objects in real time by using the device camera as a live background and an AR overlay that labels stars, constellations and planets, and it shows nearby aircraft and satellites on the same view. The app also includes a satellite tracker that lists the ISS and other orbiting objects, and a rocket launch calendar with visibility planning tied to your location.
How it supports self-directed exploration
Skopos brings observational tasks into a single workflow through the Tonight planner that consolidates meteor showers, planet-visibility windows and other events into one schedule. Integrated weather and cloud forecasts let you check viewing conditions inside the app, so users can pick nights with clearer skies without switching to a separate forecast tool.
Is it suitable for beginners and hobbyists?
The app fits casual learners and enthusiasts because it pairs AR identification with live trackers for aircraft and satellites, which lowers the barrier between spotting and identifying objects. The presence of flight details, routes and photographs for nearby aircraft gives plane spotters factual context, while the satellite tracker makes following the ISS straightforward for newcomers.
How it tracks progress, events and contextual data
Skopos focuses on situational awareness rather than skill metrics; it does not offer test scores or learning analytics but provides event scheduling, live position data and mission details that let learners plan observations and log what they see. The rocket launch entries include launch site maps and visibility estimates tied to the user location, which supports practical planning for viewing sessions.
Skopos suits curious observers who want a single observational reference
Skopos is a capable option for hobbyist astronomers, plane spotters and spaceflight followers who prefer a single app for AR-based identification, live tracking and launch planning. Expect practical observation tools and location-based visibility guidance rather than formal progress tracking. A simple tip: use the Tonight planner with the integrated cloud forecast to pick optimal nights for field observations.
