After MapQuest and other similar services made computer based mapping second nature to millions of people, software developers decided to turn their attention to the skies, bringing “sky mapping” to the desktop. Microsoft WorldWide Telescope, Google Sky (part of Google Earth), and Stellarium offer three different takes on how to explore the galaxies from your computer. Best of all, all three are free, so the cost of entry for accessing all of this information is nonexistent. Read on to learn what differentiates each product and how good of an experience they deliver to the user.

Part 1: Google Earth with Google Sky

Part 2: Microsoft WorldWide Telescope

Part 3: Stellarium

WorldWide Telescope, a free product from Microsoft Research, offers both a Silverlight based Web application for Windows, OS X, and Linux, as well as a richer desktop application for Windows only.  Content is provided by the Hubble Telescope and other NASA sources, as well as numerous other astronomical image repositories.  The application offers excellent guided tours by leading astronomers, a very polished interface, and easy ways to learn more about a given topic and save images.

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Our model is clean and simple. We build something, we sell that thing. If something is free, you should take a look and find out where the real cost is.

Steve Ballmer, in response to a Windows Phone 7 pricing question.

The HP Slate is slated (sorry, couldn’t resist) to offer more versatility, more power, and a lower price than the rumored Apple slate; it’s truly a do-it-all device.

We’ve learned that Microsoft is preparing to role out an incentive program for using its Bing service.  Users would be rewarded points for performing different activities, from as simple as setting Bing as their default search engine and home page to purchasing air line tickets and products through Bing.  After installing the “Bing Bar” browser toolbar, users would be able to keep track of their points and redeem them for prizes or donate them to charity.  Possible names for the program include Bing Search & Earn, Bing Rewards, Club Bing, Bing Perks, and Bing VIP (our favorite).  Take a look at the screenshots below to get an idea of what the program might look like.  If and when Microsoft does roll out this program, remember that you heard it here first!

October 22, 2009 marks the official release of Windows 7. There are hundreds of reviews of this anticipated product floating around on the Internet, but we want this review to be a valuable addition to your understanding of what Microsoft’s latest operating system has to offer. Read on to learn more how well Windows 7 succeeds in achieving its goals and how it can help you get more out of your computer, your media, and your life. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave a comment or send us an email; we’ve been using Windows 7 in Beta, RC, and RTM form for over eight months, and are glad to answer any questions you might have.

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