What is Solar System Scope?
Solar System Scope is a 3D model of the Solar System, the night sky and outer space that runs in your browser. It shows the Sun, planets, dwarf planets, comets, stars and constellations in accurate positions in real time, along with facts about each object.
It has had a free version since it began in 2011 and is made by INOVE. The site also offers free planet texture maps, printable paper models of the planets, an embed option for your own website and a space encyclopedia called Spacepedia. The online model needs a desktop computer with WebGL, and there are paid and mobile versions too.
Main Features
- A real-time 3D model of the Solar System
- Night sky view with stars and constellations
- Planets, dwarf planets and comets
- Facts about each object
- Free planet texture maps
- Printable paper planet models
- Embed the model on your own website
- Spacepedia space encyclopedia
How to Get Started with Solar System Scope
- Open solarsystemscope.com on a desktop computer.
- Click Start online model.
- Drag to rotate the view and scroll to zoom.
- Click a planet to fly to it and read about it.
- Switch to the night sky to find stars and constellations.
Solar System Scope Pricing
The online model is free. A desktop version for PC and Mac costs USD 9.80 and runs offline in full screen with better graphics. The Android and iOS apps are free with optional in-app purchases.
Who Should Use It?
- Students learning about the planets
- Teachers explaining the Solar System
- Amateur astronomers
- Space fans
- 3D artists looking for planet textures
Solar System Scope Alternatives
- 100,000 Stars is a 3D tour of the stars near our Sun.
- The Size of Space compares the sizes of things in space, from astronauts to stars.
- If the Moon Were Only 1 Pixel is a scrolling map that shows how far apart the planets really are.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Solar System Scope free?
Yes. The online model is free. A desktop version costs USD 9.80, and the mobile apps have optional in-app purchases.
Does Solar System Scope work on phones?
The online model is made for desktop computers with WebGL. On phones, use the Android or iOS app.
What does the desktop version add?
It has improved graphics and runs offline and in full screen.
Who made Solar System Scope?
It is made by INOVE and has had a free version since 2011.
Can I put Solar System Scope on my website?
Yes. The site has an embedding option for your own website.