Open Source: Celestia!

  Celestia can be found through SourceForge.net. It is a 3D simulator for outer space- it is very visually appealing and has great potential for science teachers focusing on astronomy- at all age levels! If you hit the "d" key the program puts you in "Demo" mode which is a nice way to start since if give you an overview of our solar system. I think that if a teacher is allowed to actually download this software on his/her class computer then it would be an excellent visual to display for the class. I put some thought on how I could use this in my classroom but I know that I am not allowed to download ANYTHING :(  I may be able to get permission from our IT staff so I will look into that.
   I should also mention that Celestia can be used just because its cool...it doesn't have to be a science teacher!