Using Unicode Characters in User Designations
Deep-Sky Planner 9 has improved support for Unicode characters in Observing Plans and the Observing Log. Although you can enter Unicode characters into user designations - Object (User), there are some important considerations.
Example
Suppose you want to enter the double star Sigma Cassiopeia into an observing plan:
Double stars in particular present numerous methods of naming the star. Since Deep-Sky Planner includes the WDS catalog, it uses the WDS designation as its system-preferred, unique identifier for double stars. In this case, it is WDS 23590+5545AB.
The double star can also be called Sigma Cas or STF 3049 (as it is also known by Common Names in Deep-Sky Planner), Sigma Cassiopeia, Ʃ Cas, Struve 3049, Ʃ 3049.
Using the system-preferred designation or a Common Name known in the database is the best practice because these designations are known throughout the system. Entering these forms allows detailed object information to be accessed in the database - items like RA, Declination, separation, etc.
If you choose to enter a different form of designation, like Ʃ Cas, please note the following:
- The designation search engine will not find any objects with Unicode character designations. You should search for designations with English characters only (e.g., Sigma Cas not Ʃ Cas). Once the database entry is located, edit the Object (User) field and click OK to save. The link between a designation in a plan and the database is done on the system-preferred designation Object not the user designation Object (User).
- It is difficult to enter Unicode characters on most Windows systems unless you know the Windows Alt-codes (or use Character Map)
- Reports may not sort as expected
- Plans will not export to other devices and software
- Some users don't recognize the Greek letters
If you can accept these drawbacks, there are some advantages:
- Designations with Unicode characters appear correctly in reports
- They print correctly
- They look like designations shown in other publications (like atlases, magazines, books)
If you Add an observation for the object using the Observations tab in the Observing Plan Report, the user designation is copied into the new observation.
Notice in the newly added observation that:
- The user designation is displayed correctly
- The system-preferred designation allows object information to be accessed from the database
- The user designation appears and prints correctly in Observation reports
- Can be backed up and restored correctly
- Can be exported in OAL format correctly
In summary, using Unicode characters in object designations has several drawbacks, so it isn't for everone. However, it has some unique advantages that can mitigate confusion with designations, especially with double stars.