Microsoft launches Worldwide Telescope

Microsoft has released a beta version of software which will compete with Google Sky.

Microsoft’s WorldWide Telescope is a a rich Web application that allows users to view images of the universe from their computer.

It accesses high-resolution images taken by powerful ground- and Earth-orbiting telescopes, including the Hubble Space Telescope.

Using Web-based astronomy databases, the software allows user to build their own tours of stars and galaxies.

As well as looking at space, Google Sky also provides infrared, microwave, and historical views of the sky.