In a new development, search engine provider Google has made its Google Sky software available on web browsers.Previously only available through Google Earth, the Sky application enables internet users to explore the universe by zooming in on galaxies and seeing planets, among other things.
Google describes the feature, which was initially launched in August last year as a downloadable application, as "like having a giant, virtual telescope at your command - your own personal planetarium".
The new version available through browsers allows users to look at objects in space in ultraviolet, infrared, x-ray or microwave light and the navigation is similar to that of Google Maps.
Commenting on the development, Michael Weiss-Malik, a software engineer at the firm, stated that Google did not want "web-based users to be left out of that cosmic exploration experience".
"So I'm delighted to announce the launch of the web version of Google Sky, which turns your browser into a virtual telescope that can zoom and pan across the entire cosmos," he added.
According to a company blog, the feature allows users to browse tens of thousands of named objects, view galleries highlighting the best images from the Hubble telescope and see current planet positions and constellations, among other things.
Google has released its updated Sky service in 26 localised language editions, saying this marks its first product to support left-to-right languages.
