Microsoft Research launches WorldWide Telescope

Microsoft Research’s WorldWide Telescope, otherwise known as “the thing that made Robert Scoble cry” has been publicly launched today.

WorldWide telescope is a desktop application that essentially turns your computer into a virtual telescope, allowing you to browse the universe. You can roam the universe freely or choose from a growing number of guided tours by astronomers and educators. You can also join communities of stargazers, connect your own telescope to your computer and control using the application.

Another cool option allows you to gain a different perspective on what you’re seeing by switching between imagery sources.

The interface is pretty complex right now but everything works quite smoothly once you get the hang of it. I guess Microsoft will have to simplify it to allow wide adoption

I don’t know about you but I’m going to take some time and travel the universe…