Tool Guide & Overlaps

Some simulators cover similar topics. Here is how to choose the right one and avoid duplication.

celestial horizon comparison · celestial equatorial hc · ra dec · alt azimuth

These all teach coordinate systems. Start with Alt/Azimuth (horizon-based), then RA/Dec (sky map), then use the comparison tools for side-by-side study.

planetary configurations · configurations simulator

Same underlying simulator — use the Renaissance page for historical context, NAAP page for technical detail.

keplers third · planetary orbit

Both use the Kepler orbit SWF. Third Law focuses on the period–distance relationship; Orbit Simulator lets you explore all three laws.

retrograde · mars orbit

Retrograde Motion is a focused view; Ptolemaic Orbit of Mars shows the full epicycle model.

basketball phases · three views · lunar phases naap

Start with Basketball Phases for intuition, Three Views for spatial understanding, then NAAP for full interactivity.

SWF conversion note

Classic animations run via Ruffle (Flash emulator) in the browser. For full HTML5 ports, use the flash-swf-to-html5-toolkit with source SWFs from dr-data/flash-animations.

Native React tools (marked "Enhanced") already include Hong Kong defaults and mobile-friendly controls.