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Rockd for PC

Rockd for PC

Explore, learn about, and document your geologic surroundings!
★ 4.4v4.1.2141.5 MBEducation

Reviewed by  · Updated 

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What's New

Version4.1.2
Size141.5 MB
What's New- Improvements for Macrostrat stratigraphic columns- Checkin feed page now uses infinite scroll- Internal upgrades, stability improvements, and bug fixes
Rockd PC screenshot

Rockd transforms geologic field data into a persistent desktop resource. Instead of hunting through phone screenshots or paper notes after a day in the field, you can sit at your computer with the app running alongside your research materials, logging observations and cross-referencing geologic maps without the constraints of mobile data or battery limits. If you're a professional geoscientist organizing years of field work or an amateur prospector building a reference collection, Rockd on PC keeps your geologic journey accessible and searchable in one place.

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Rockd combines field observation tools with access to geologic data and community contributions. Running Rockd for Windows PC lets you work with the full dataset (geologic maps, elevation records, and peer observations) while your notes and recordings stay synced. The desktop experience suits both active field documentation and desk-based exploration of Earth's geologic record.

Building and Managing Your Geologic Field Log

Rockd lets you record your own observations offline and add them to the app later. You can tag features from the Macrostrat database and the Paleobiology Database, document strike and dip or trend and plunge measurements using your device's compass, and attach notes to each entry. On a desktop, you keep these records organized and visible without juggling multiple apps or windows: your field log stays in view while you write reports, cross-check literature, or plan future trips. You can choose to keep your progress private or share specific observations with colleagues and the broader community using unique URLs.

Access to Global Geologic Data

The app provides instant access to more than 140 geologic maps, with new ones added regularly, covering nearly every region on Earth. You also get elevation data from multiple sources (SRTM, GMTED, NED, and ETOPO1) for most points globally. From your PC, you can explore paleogeographic reconstructions created by C.R. Scotese and GPlates, allowing you to see what a landscape looked like millions of years ago. When published literature exists for mapped geologic units, Rockd connects you to that research through GeoDeepDive, which means you can read the science behind the rocks in your study area without leaving the app.

Connecting with Other Geologists and Prospectors

Rockd is a community resource. You can see the public activity of other users and browse shared field observations, which means your desktop session becomes a window into how other geoscientists and enthusiasts are exploring the geologic record worldwide. Many professionals use install Rockd on PC to review student or team submissions during preparation or to plan field trips collaboratively. The social layer (viewing others' public checkins and sharing your own discoveries) transforms the app from a solo logging tool into a shared geologic conversation.

Why Professional Geoscientists Choose Rockd for Computer Work

Rockd for computer use appeals to geologists managing long-term research, teaching, or prospecting. The app was built by the Macrostrat lab at the University of Wisconsin–Madison with support from the National Science Foundation, so it reflects academic rigor and peer-reviewed geologic data. Field professionals report that Rockd outperforms other rock identification and mapping apps, offering both beginner-friendly logging and advanced features for experts. The combination of offline field notes, online map access, and literature references makes Rockd an all-in-one reference it runs running throughout your workday.

How to Download and Install Rockd for PC or MAC:

Select an Android emulator:  There are many free and paid Android emulators available for PC and MAC, few of the popular ones are Bluestacks, Andy OS, Nox, MeMu and there are more you can find from Google.

Compatibility:  Before downloading them take a look at the minimum system requirements to install the emulator on your PC.

For example,  BlueStacks requires OS: Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista SP2, Windows XP SP3 (32-bit only), Mac OS Sierra(10.12), High Sierra (10.13) and Mojave(10.14), 2-4GB of RAM, 4GB of disk space for storing Android apps/games, updated graphics drivers.

Finally, download and install the emulator which will work well with your PC's hardware/software.

  1. Open the emulator software from the start menu or desktop shortcut in your PC.
  2. Associate or set up your Google account with the emulator.
  3. You can either install the app from Google PlayStore inside the emulator or download Rockd APK file and open the APK file with the emulator or drag the file into the emulator window to install Rockd for PC.

You can follow above instructions to install Rockd for PC with any of the Android emulators available.

Download Rockd

Rockd for PC

Rockd for PC

Explore, learn about, and document your geologic surroundings!

FAQ

Can I use Rockd offline on my computer?

Rockd enables you to add field observations offline on your mobile device, which you can then sync when you reconnect. The desktop version benefits from a stable internet connection to access the full library of geologic maps and elevation data, though your previously downloaded records and notes remain available.

What geologic regions does Rockd cover?

Rockd provides interactive access to over 140 geologic maps spanning most of the globe, with new maps added weekly. Coverage includes paleogeographic reconstructions and elevation datasets for nearly all points on Earth, though availability and detail vary by region.

Can I share my field observations with colleagues?

Yes. It runs your progress private, or generate unique URLs to share specific observations with others. You can also browse public observations submitted by the broader community, making it easy to collaborate or learn from other geologists' findings.

Does Rockd work if I don't have cell service in the field?

You can record observations and measurements offline using your phone's built-in compass to document strike/dip or trend/plunge data. Once you regain connectivity, those entries sync to your account, so your desktop records stay current.

Who built Rockd and is it maintained?

Rockd was developed by the Macrostrat lab in the Department of Geoscience at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, with funding from the National Science Foundation. For technical support or bug reports, contact the team at [email protected].

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