An innovative application, Galactic Compass, has been launched on the Apple App Store, offering iPhone users the unique ability to locate the center of the Milky Way galaxy easily. The app is the brainchild of creator Matthew Webb and uses advanced technology, including artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT.
The Galactic Compass was birthed out of Webb’s own efforts to pinpoint the shifting location of the Galactic Center and simplify the process for others interested in astronomy. Webb’s shared motivations on his website reflect his dedication to making seemingly complex galactic tracks more accessible to the general public.
The user-friendly application guides users to find the Galactic Center with ease. Upon opening the app and placing their iPhones on a flat surface, a green arrow emerges, pointing towards the Galactic Center. The direction of the arrow allows users to find the position of the Galactic Center in the night sky. Lifting the iPhone aligns with the arrow, overlaying a full sky map on the screen which denotes the location of the supermassive black hole, Sagittarius A*.
Sagittarius A* is the core of our galaxy, exerting a strong gravitational influence on surrounding stars and forcing them into high-speed orbits. Despite its significant mass, it remains relatively dim and challenging to observe. However, its presence and properties can be inferred based on its effects on nearby celestial objects.
The Galactic Compass app not only functions as a celestial pointer but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the universe’s vast expanse. The app uses real-time GPS data to help users locate stars, galaxies, and other celestial bodies. Additionally, the app has a bookmark feature for tracking favorite celestial bodies and provides regular updates for accuracy and inclusion of newly discovered space objects.
Webb utilized the AI tool ChatGPT and complex mathematical calculations to trace the Galactic Center in relation to the user’s location and date. The software development process involved the use of quaternions, a technique used for representing 3D partial rotations and alignments. Through the integration of WebGL, Webb was able to incorporate an interactive visual representation of the Milky Way. His efforts received praises for the app’s ease of use and intuitive design, successfully merging technology and science in an accessible manner.
