While it covers the solar system well, Planetarium database includes thousands of stars, comets, asteroids and deep sky objects. The program draws a complete sky map on the screen, complete with the positions of all 88 constellations. Planetarium functions very well as compass, especially when the Sun or moon is visible. Simply line up the sun symbol in the program's compass display, and you'll instantly know which way is north. Professional and amateur astronomers will find a lot to like about Planetarium.
Planetarium covers that, too.
The program works as a handy clock, but can be configured to advance forward and backward in time. It's not a time machine, but you'll be able to follow the annual path of planets. I can't think of a better program to use while stargazing on a clear night. Of course, you can get a better view of the heavens by connecting Planetarium to a telescope. This program is shareware, and occasionally displays a registration reminder.