Great Astronomical Observing App – Observer Pro - Astronomy Planner Review

I'm one of those users that really likes free apps/software (like Stellarium); I rarely download an app from iTunes if there is a cost. However this app and its favorable review in Astronomy Technology Today Jan/Feb 2012 prompted me to looking into this app further. I am SO glad that I did. This app is quite robust for smart phone app. and at times I feel like I'm using a full-blown PC application. I've had it for about 2 weeks and I've taken on 2 observing evenings. I was very impressed! There is a bit to learn and go back to when using this app which is why the built-in tutorial is great idea. When looking thru the various catalogs, it is wonderful to be able to sort by various different criteria, name, transit time, size, constellation, etc. That fact that all the objects have pictures of what you should be able to see is great however in some cases the views you will see just are not as good. This is not a detraction of the app but rather users should set the appropriate expectation (i.e. NGC 6960 - the Western part of the Veil Nebula - you won't see that much nebulosity even from a dark site from with a huge telescope). However for photographic comparison it's great. Mapping the horizon for obstacles such as tree lines, buildings, etc. and then systematically blocking those parts of the skies in the data as to when objects are visible it truly amazing. There are lots of other neat features as well. If you are looking for an app to help your organize your observing lists, look no further. This app is definitely worth the price and more.
Review by Mike in Raleigh/Durham, NC USA on Observer Pro - Astronomy Planner.