Overview
SQM Toolbox processes observatory coordinates, light pollution measurements, preferences, exports, astronomical calculations, and optional external scientific database uploads.
Information We Collect
- Observatory coordinates for astronomical calculations.
- Measurement data and associated metadata.
- User preferences, graph configurations, and display preferences.
- Export metadata such as instrument identification, data supplier information, observatory characteristics, and measurement parameters.
- Automatically generated astronomical calculations, space weather data, Milky Way brightness, and airglow estimates.
Local Processing
- All measurement processing and astronomical calculations occur locally on your Mac.
- Your data is stored in local files and macOS user preferences.
- No personal data is transmitted to GerSpatial servers for app functionality.
Data Export and Sharing
- SkyGlow format files may include location and measurement metadata you configured.
- Optional uploads to Globe at Night, Light Pollution Map, and Unihedron Database are initiated only by your explicit action.
- Each external service has its own privacy policy and data handling practices.
Network Activity
- Retrieving F10.7 and Kp indices from public government sources such as NOAA and ESA.
- Optional data uploads when you explicitly choose to share data with scientific databases.
- No usage analytics or telemetry collection.
- CloudKit synchronisation may be used with SQM Mobile when both devices use the same iCloud account.
Data Security and Retention
- Network connections use HTTPS when accessing external data sources.
- API keys for external services are stored securely in macOS Keychain where possible.
- Local data persists until you delete it or uninstall the app.
- Exported files remain under your control.
Your Rights and Controls
- Access stored preferences through app settings.
- Modify or delete measurement data and preferences.
- Export standard format files.
- Choose whether and where to upload data.
Third-Party Services
- NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center for solar flux and geomagnetic indices.
- GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences for historical geomagnetic indices.
- Optional data sharing services including Globe at Night, Light Pollution Map, and Unihedron Database.
Contact
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the developer at: info@gerspatial.com