The major change in this version is the integration of the latest planetary theory DE438 from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a research center located in California, specializing in the preparation of automated exploration missions. The algorithms developed by researchers accurately model the positions, speeds, and accelerations of the main objects in the solar system.
The accuracy of the calculations in WinStars can be tested by setting, for example, the date to June 1, 2017, in the solar system mode and following Cassini’s trajectory (Animation function).
The engineers of this mission, running out of fuel, decided to plunge the probe into Saturn’s atmosphere to avoid contamination one of its satellites with potential staphylococcus bacteria that might have survived in Cassini.
This version also provided an opportunity to review the source code and correct numerous defects. In the next version, the Android interface will benefit from significant improvements.