Wasn't loading on my XP Pro system, discovered that I needed to reload the drivers for my graphics card, works fine now. Very pleasant to come back to when I walk away from my machine for awhile.

It seems pretty good!

#81: Still don't get the point, huh? Someone advertising here "no spyware, no adware" and yet offering junk-infested agressive adware from Astro Gemini over and over again? Totally irrelevant whether I can uncheck the toolbar install or not, such crap has no place in "no spyware, no adware" offers, nor has it any place in screensavers which are supposed to be one *.scr file. And nor does their superjunky screensaver manager that serves the only purpose - nagging users with stupid advertising and breaking Windows functionality - belong there. You know, Windows already bundles a screensaver manager, and it's perfectly sufficient for everyone.

hello, can someone please tell me how to view the screensaver as i cant remember what do do with the winzip file someone please tell me.

Thanks!

at #8, weird problem because my xp system is a 2.6 also (and in fact one of my desktops is a 2.6 with xp pro and an emachine at that!) and I've had no problems with AstroGemini.
I have to admit though that I'm hungrily hoping one of these days to get myself a new faster more up to date desktop since all my desktops are circa 2003-2004 (And I hope that Microsux fixes Vista so that it stops denying me access to my own system before I do, I get so sick of my Vista laptop giving me access denied messages, and so far all the tweaks or workarounds I've tried haven't succeeded in giving me total access!)

Maybe it's because most ppl here are guys that screensavers get such negative responses, (or maybe a lot of ppl here live in tropical areas and don't experience the dramatic beauty of temperate zone autumn!)but personally I enjoy the AstroGemini screensavers and think its cool to have a new one that fits the season.

I for one, hope that the Halloweeen in the Attic screensaver will be offered as a Giveaway too, in time for Halloween. I think my black cats and I would enjoy that one on Halloween night!

Although a couple of the Giveaway screensavers haven't been "my type of thing", the majority have been beautiful, fascinating, or have let me experience different places that I hope to someday see for real.

Thank you GAOTD & AstroGemini !

Thanks, #17, Lori, for pointing out the lack of dual-monitor support. I usually note that, but I had my second monitor turned off.

The comments are the same as on every screensaver giveaway. Like I said, the fact that people were commenting and voting the same as they always do, while the giveaway was unavailable to most people, just proves how pointless most of the comments are.

As I've said a hundred times before, screensavers can be run standalone, which is how I run them. Windows power management (XP and Vista) works best if you have a fast computer, but is fully compatible with 3D screensavers. My monitor and computer will go into standby just like they always do, while a screensaver is running.

There is no spyware in the screensavers, they don't access the Internet. You don't have to use the screensaver manager, and you have to specifically ask for the toolbar to be installed.

If your computer crashes, that's your video drivers, not the screensaver. Having recently used both ATI and nVidia video cards and drivers, I'd give them both an "F". However, nVidia 3D support is stable, but ATI drivers crash for every possible reason--3D, video, even just changing settings.

This isn't the proper forum to address environmental issues. Anyone who thinks screensavers are responsible for global warming needs to have their head examined. Besides, no one wants to address the major reason for all environmental issues, which is massive (and increasing) human overpopulation. Long-term, the environmental impact of a human lineage which reproduces at or above the replacement rate is infinitely higher than one which reproduces below the replacement rate.

#24,MarkB
Mr "grown-up", if you have no use for a toolbar, how about just not installing it along with the main program provided that's possible like here, hmmmmm?
AstroGemini must have thought of the grown-up user type like YOU when they decided to implement an uncheck option in the installation routine.

#42,Doktor Notor
If we can assume "Dead" to be a typo (a very deep-minded, Freudian one but, right, the D and R have been arranged way too close to one another, haven't they?!) you should have a look at my advice above since it is geared to you as well.
Besides this, my top recommendation to your address would be to DROP Windows Internet Explorer and to replace THIS true piece of junk with either Opera or Mozilla Firefox. As soon as Google's Chroma browser will have gotten rid of its still many bugs (esp. in terms of security), the IE7 or IE8 - it won't matter all that much - will be ranked No.4 AT BEST. In my opinion, IE is probably the worst of all major applications (I don't know all of them) ever made by Microsoft.

OOPS, be careful with this and all other things called screen savers. I just took a real good look at several from sites where they eant paid for them and even they have malware and other unwanted bits and pieces of program. The free ones are loaded with unwanted software.

Obviously there a lot of idiots out there they think they're supplying "useful" comments week after week about how unnecessary screensavers are. We GET that. We know where the off button is and all about hibernation, etc. We just don't care what you think.

They're PRETTY--OKAY? I'll lay odds that most people don't uses screensavers on a regular basis. But they're nice to run to set a mood (for a holiday) or just because we'd like to look at something pretty for a change. So GET OVER YOURSELF and SHUT UP! Just because YOU don't want something. I've got news...the world doesn't revolve around what you want. Geez what will you greenies do now that they have video photo frames? That's like getting to run a screensaver without even a computer attached! Bet that frosts your bum. With remotes yet so we don't have to get off our lazy arses to change the picture.

This day and age it is idiotic to call them screen savers. If you like them fine and dandy. I use a flat thin screen and if I am not using the computer for a certain time it will shut off the screen completely. I press any key to bring it back on. Now that to me is much more screen saver than this program or any other.

Those of you that are so bored you sit and watch these things then have at it. I have much better things to do. Well sometimes anyway.

#19 & 45, Phil:

It was not a difference of opinion that I commented on, but a lack of logic. Now, in addition to a lack of logic, reading comprehension needs to be addressed.

But first...you call me a "know it all busy body" commenting on other's opinions, and that I need to "live and let live." The irony of this is that my comments were in regards to your criticism of others.

It was you that claimed that most people who complained about screen savers were the biggest energy wasters. I pointed out that this was not a rational comment. And now you come back with “how do you know?” and “are you keeping track of the world or something?” No, I do not know and neither do you, and THAT was my point exactly!

I did not say that you were a troll, but that Kelly was. Sometimes he goes by Ken Kelly. If you’ve been here for a long time as you claim, then I would think you would be aware of this.

Furthermore, I did not put people who enjoy screen savers on any “hit list.” In fact, my last comment was to by all means download and enjoy a screen saver, but simply to turn it off when you are finished and set your computer monitor to have a blank screen when in sleep mode. This addressed your concern that turning off your monitor would shorten its life span.

I’m not even going to bother trying to explain the light bulb analogy to you.

You accuse other people (i.e. #2) of being bigger energy wasters while at the same time acknowledging that it is true that “global warming can be reduced by turning of (sic) their systems when not in use,” Your argument is to “yell at the SUV and other gas guzzling emissions producers.” Accusing others of being more wasteful as a reason why you have the right not to try to conserve is an extremely self-serving attitude. We are all guilty of energy waste, but each of us should try to do the best we can however small and despite of, or perhaps even because of the wastefulness of others.

Whether man made global warming is fact or fiction is irrelevant. Nobody can dispute that there is an energy crisis (perhaps THAT is man made by greedy politicians and corporate interests.) In either scenario, conservation is called for.

So, once again…please do enjoy your screen savers, try to remember to turn them off when not watching, and there is really no need to justify anything by pointing fingers at others.

I'm using ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 8 and it does block this install, ZoneAlarm is not known for false positives either. I don't like screensavers i just checked to see after the previous poster posted about ZoneAlarm blocking the program.

#70: Thanks for caring; alas for you I didn't install this junk at all. Would not touch any AG junk with a 10ft pole. Now, may I suggest you go back to comment #24.

The moron gallery here never ceases to amaze. If you don't want the giveaway- DON'T DOWNLOAD IT. And, if you haven't downloaded it - DON'T COMMENT ON IT. Just go your own way and wait until there's something you want to TEST before commenting. Really,really simple.

And to all the quasi-tech experts regarding the 'don't turn your monitor off... it'll shorten its life...." that is absolute crap.

I've been at this my entire adult life (over 30 yrs doing electronics and IT) and have yet to see ANYTHING fail because it was shut off and turned back on daily. Not even old audio/radio equipment that used vaccuum tubes.
Nothing. Not even the switch.
OTOH, I've seen lots and lots of CRT tubes burn out prematurely, LCD backlights burn out prematurely...hard drives fail prematurely... etc., because they were left running 24/7. You're wasting your money, and probably adding to world pollution unnecessarily. Is it going to destroy the planet? No, probably not, but it's not helping it either. Can you do whatever you want? Sure... but why not leave things a little better than you found them instead of a little worse? If everyone would adopt that philosophy we'd all have a lot fewer problems wouldn't we?

On to screensavers. If you like them - good for you, download it and enjoy. If you don't like them - SHUT THE F UP AND GO AWAY. Simple.

Nice pictures, but my computer is running on overdrive when it should be sleeping!

# 53 Frank - BEST comment on the board!! Bravo!

# 45 Phil - I've seen you comment before on the giveaways as you test them and let us who are "computer dumb" know whether or not a prog is worth it, how it works,etc. and I appreciate that very much. It's nice having you review the items after you test them so we know what to watch for and in general if it's a worthwhile download with no bugs if we want it.

Myself, I enjoy the screen savers whether they are needed, not needed, and the polar ice caps have been melting for years. It didn't start yesterday so please global warming people, give it a rest. (I personally think it's bunk as is Al Gore Lol)

Enjoy your day, those like me who downloaded today's offer - enjoy!
Those who chose not to - it is your choice so don't bash on those of us who choose to DL the AG screen savers. When a tech has info on it, that's what we want to hear - not the childish whining.
Thanks GOTD for ALL you share every day whether I DL it or not.

I for one LOVE these screensavers from Astro-Gemini! Thank you so very much for continuing to offer these! C:o)

Commenter #42 Doktor Notor. If you'd been a little more careful when installing this software, you would have noticed that it asks whether you want a tool bar - i.e. - you're given the option. You obviously didn't bother to read anything and just blindly clicked. Don't go blaming Astro Gemini, who do a great job giving us so many screensavers.

This is a wonderful download! Soothing Autumn scenes with rain and leaves falling. The music is the type that you could probably fall asleep to; it's that relaxing. It doesn't work the best on my computer: Windows XP Home Edition 2002, SP2, 1.21 GHz, 1 GB of RAM. The transitions between scenes are a bit laggy. Otherwise, this screensaver is almost perfect! It's certainly much better than the 3D Dinosaurs Screensaver that I tried earlier: the dinosaurs on that one were white and blue shapes on my computer.

Bottom Line:
I recommend this screensaver for anyone who has the right system resources. Being a screensaver, it does take a little RAM power, even when it's not activated and not open.

I'm reading all these comments, taking seriously always the computer savvy commenters (THANK YOU! you guys help me TONS!) and I can't believe some of them. C'mon people, GOTD gives us the option to try all of these things for FREE! Why complain about them? If you don't want it, delete. If you think you may be interested, look here for the comments by the few guys who are really "computer smart" ( I can't remember their names but I know their comments when I see them and you will too!) and check out what they have to say about the program. They'll tell you the truth whether they keep it or not. One way to tell who they are is they let you know in their comment that they always test the programs. GOTD gives away thousands of dollars worth of programs a year and for that especially these days, be grateful. I know I am.
As for today's, I have other AG savers and I love them. I hope my Christmas one from last year still works - my kids love them too..so I install them. They all have quirks (I agree with another poster about the UGLY statues! Lol) but for the most part, they're pretty, entertaining, and they're FREE!! Happy fall y'all!!

Rather than look at a screensaver portraying autumn, why not shut off your PC and go to a nice park with a lake and look at the real thing?

# 20 you said " new here, (1 week) and I was a bit shocked at your comment. " Just wait, that comment will look tame after you have been here a while.

I like the screen savers, works great thanks GOTD!

I forgot. I'm not against people enjoying themselves with screen savers, but I'm not against people who give valid criticisms to the software, either.

Uh, Phil, maybe you should read your own comments before you knock somebody else.

"#2 Some people claim that global warming can be reduced by turning of their systems when not in use and this is true. But most of the people who claim this are also the ones who leave 100 watt lights on all the time, leave their cars running when the fast food lane is backed up, never fix leaky faucetts, use electric water heaters instead of gas ones, never bother to replace the spark plug on their mowers, run electric alarm clocks instead of wind up ones ETC."

It's true you didn't actually tell #16 not to turn off his "system", but put the 2 comments together and you get a clear insinuation that that it's bad to turn off his monitor, which you clearly state in your rebuttal of my comments, anyway. So you criticize me for claiming you insinuated what you actually wanted to say, anyway??? As for my monitor, if you'll go back and read, you'll see the term "CRT", not LCD. All this after a snarky reply to #5 whose comment might have been better handled by just ignoring it. If I was 16, I would draw the conclusion that you were criticizing him for saying turn off your monitor. And HE didn't say turn off the switch, he said use your computer's sleep mode. And I don't really think he meant turning off your monitor saves the earth, just your monitor, as 31 says. And, though, one person doesn't make much of a difference, billions do. I've seen large companies who still use company logo screen savers instead of sleep mode.

I'm sorry that you have a mad on for the environmentally concerned. I admit they often go overboard. But they generally don't do the kind of things you criticize them for. It's generally the people who rip them that leave on all the lights. Besides, I'm not sure I could currently easily replace my computer, DSL modem, DVD, VCR, TV, etc. with the windup kind like a windup alarm clock. And if you were to demonstrate how these people were hypocrites by stopping to use your computer until you could find a windup model, then you couldn't post these friendly comments.

As to your technician credentials, I withdraw my objections. I am willing to stand corrected that the best idea for the folks here is to use "sleep", ot, better yet, turn off your machine when your day is done, and let your monitor go into standby. After all, you even admit you turn off your computer and give what I'd say are good reasons as to why, so your obvioulsly not concerned with wearing it out by using it's switch. However, as someone who has done television repair, I'd like to assert that many of the devices that you get calls on could have been weakened over time because the owners had inadequate surge protection. Power spikes are usually more damaging than the minor "damage" done by the turn on surge which is designed for, anyway.

I admit, my tone to you in these replies was perhaps a little harsh (Know what I mean, Verne?). At this point, I apologize. I, like most others, have many faults. But, I read what you said before I composed this rebuttal. So did others (#31, #32, #40). All we ask is you extend us the same courtesy.

#26 Brenda - After you download, you'll see a tannish icon with a key..double click on that and that registers the programs. Then a screen pops up to start installing it. Always double click that key icon on all GOTD downloads first as that is how they're registered for you. Some will have a reg. number on them but most don't - they just automatically register you as a GOTD user so it's automatic. I hope that helps!

I can't get it to run either. I checked their support page and downloaded a newer version of DirectX, and that didn't help. Running XP with service pack 3.

A nice screensaver. Thanks.

Downloaded and installed fine, no problems.
This is a standard Gemini screensaver. The art work isn't the best but the over-all graphics are really good. The different scenes are really good with the different movement of view and action with-in the screensaver.

Thumbs up Thank you GAOTD and Gemini!!!

Windows XP PRO SP2 64-bit Intel extreme x2 x2 3.0
Nivida Graphics card 8800GTX

I will say upfront, that I dont like screensavers. So, I am pretty critical of them. I made an exception and downloaded this one, just to see. Not a great screensaver, but, it is pretty good. Good enough that I am going to keep it. I dont like the music, but that can be muted. The rain sound was pretty real. I am usually one of those whiners, but I was in a good mood after a long charity bicycle ride today. Thanks GAOTD, and Astro Gemini.

I used to have this companies screen savers. I found after a couple of months, almost all savers would crash. I mean.. all I used within a couple month3 crashed. I payed for many!(25) They are not that nice to look at, looks like a very old video game.
It sucks up alot of CPU power, even with hi end cpu's. There is a constant nag to buy more of their stuff..I mean CONSTANTLY.
Last but not least, there is a screen saver manager that is incredibly BAD.(manage screen savers?)I mean to get more stuff;(
I'm sorry, I have tried these guys before, and I urge people to find another screen saver if you want one.
Like was said above...DON'T Google for them...It equals disaster to PC.
Tried Tested 'N' not TRUE!

ok some of you don't like screensavers,some do. i like them and change mine frequently. i have kids so sometimes we all just can't turn our computers off, so it's nice to at least have something pleasant running in the background till i can return. as it has been said before if you don't like it or need it leave it alone and come back the next day there might be something for you then.

Come on people, talking bolocks about "saving the earth" and "global warming" and then polluting the airwaves with your drivel. GET REAL.
What you are doing (in case you didnt realise it) is berating your kids for smoking while puffing away on your fags.
Thanks GAOTD. Keep up the great work. Those I dont want or have a use for I just IGNORE. Easy hey?

Well.. Screen savors are for when you are not using the computer. Wouldn't it be easier to just use standby or hibernation mode? After all the screen savor kicks in when your not around using the computer. Do you really need a graphic animation that you really wont even see half the time? In other words I sort of defeats the purpose.

Right, the people (most of them anyhow) give their "verdicts" on the programs BEFORE they even try them (if they ever do). The level of ignorance, it's astonishing. That's what happened with the grownups had to surrender to the children. Education: gone!

These are absolutely nonsense comments. All of which are a way to express the rejection for a screensaver giveaway. People do behave like kids over here sometimes. Penny wise and Pound Foolish! We are here in the era of LCD Monitors being used predominantly so why to think of the realiability of CRT. #19 phil and #32 Diane are very right in their sattires! For some people even simple savers are a great relaxation just as someone might watch a 2 hour dvd film. Also how does it matter to use screen savers at a place where computers have to work all day long with monitors turned on and not used that much, for instance an office cabin or internet cafe.Its disgusting the way screen savers are rejected here just because people don't need it. What do you think this site is?-> a magic bag that will always give out silk and gold and you may treat all rest as coal! Everyday we have something for someone over here and if this site is ever closed then all the complainers will get a good lesson! All those who complain in the fashion as today people have done taking the excuse of "Global Warming" are sheer hypocrites and diplomat people with very less wits. This is by no way any constructive criticism or worthwile comment for the software !! Rest I may say that, The screensaver is fine, goes along with the season so Thanks GAOTD AND Astro Gemini-the only clients to offer savers here.........

Normally i don't like astro gemini's screensavers, but this is actually very nice. Autumn can be, and is, a very beautiful time, also demonstrated through this. So if you think you'll want an autumn screensaver then get this - do not go to those many Free Screensavers-sites where you will be in danger of getting spyware/adware/viruses that can destroy the whole system. This is suprisingly good and a keeper for me. Thanks again GOTD !

I actually quite like this giveaway. Very serene and relaxing, a thumbs up from me.

Crashes on launch for me, whether I click Preview or let it start itself through a timer. I'm running XP with SP3.

wow this is almost as bad as the "little dwarf screensaver" not good stuff... this is well programed guys but its not something of interest for many of us. many of us are computer geeks that want geeky software =D lol my mom might like this... but not me, thanks but nothanks gaotd

Nice work Astro-Gemini as usual. Keep the screensavers coming. When the computer's idle it's nice to see something going on besides 3d-Pipes.

edit: Normally, I don't use any screensaver at all. I simply turn my monitor off. The SETI @ Home screensaver is the first one I've had in over 20 years.

When my computer is sitting idle, I've got "SETI At Home" running. http://setiathome.berkeley.edu/

The data that my computer is processing from the Aricebo Radio Telescope is my screensaver. Who knows? How cool would be be if it was my computer that found "the signal"?

Watching that data processing is plenty relaxing to me. But then I'm an old programmer, and we're known to be a little bit ... off. Ha!

# 29 I never said don't turn off your system which can handle the power on surges that "LCD" screens can't over time, just your LCD screen. Leaving the power on with no system running leaves the monitor powered, but it won't waste energy (Or that much) because it won't have anything on the screen. I power off my system at night not for fear of hackers, but to keep 8-10 hours of dust, pet hair and other things from being pulled into the system. While I'm up and around leaving the screen saver run while I work on others systems lets me hop onto a sight faster to download drivers or programs without having to power up my system each time. As a Certified tech I've recieved many calls over the the past few years about LCD's not coming back on after being turned off. These people turned them off and on regularly. Most LCD screens are good for 3-4 years by most standards, I have two that have never been turned off (because I use a good battery backup) that are still working after seven years.

#32 Your "Know it all busy body" comments need to be cleaned up a bit because commenting on others opinions that may differ from yours deserves a bit of "Live and let live" respect. How do you know who is or isn't an energy waster? You keeping track of the world or something? I find on many occaisions that the very people who demand we conserve energy are often overlooking things that they do which is just as wasteful if not more. So park your holier than thou attitude and do some research. I've been in here a long time so believe me I'm no "Troll". To claim that I mean turning off your light bulbs will wear them out sooner just because I refer to LCD screens is something you've dreamed up because thats not what I said.

Screen savers once had a specific purpose with CRT monitors, and that was to protect them. Since most people know that LCD's don't have this problem what else would you use one for except to enhance your work station? I enjoy screen savers in many ways, not just to save my screen. If you want to do something about the enviroment then run down to the cornwer gas station and yell at the SUV and other gas guzzling emmisions producers. So leve me and others who appreciate a good screen saver off of your hit list.

I download screensavers for my cat...he will sit for hours and watch them!

#25: ZoneAlarm just prevented you from installing malware on your system. Thumbs up to ZA and huge thumbs down to Astro Gemini junk.

Dead GAOTD, stop offering the junk from Astro Gemini Software finally. Their screensaver "manager" has always been broken piece of intrusive junk. Also, your "no adware, no spyware" claim fails yet again and proves you do nothing to actually test the stuff. This Astro Gemini junk hijacks your browser search and installs an obnoxious advertising toolbar. Shame on you and the vendor of this crap!

Thanks GAOTD!!! I just purchased a new computer and was in need of a few additional screensavers. It's just a personal preference and I am glad that you offer such a variety. BTW - can anyone out there recommend a few sites where I could find some free screensavers without spyware (I am hoping to find something with fish or holiday themes.)

Thanks,

Larry Johnson

#19 Well I am not most people:
-I only use non-fluorecent bulbs and don't leave them on in any case
-I don't leave my car running because I never owned a car and don't even have a driver licence. I always use public transport for how crappy it is.
-For sure I don't eat at fast foods when I can eat the best, healthiest food in the world: original Italian cousine
-I don't mow my lawn
-I switch the standby on all my appliances.

Well, I installed it on two computers; one it worked great, pretty, soothing, though I'm not crazy about the many statue views. On the other, it simply didn't work -- period. Program crashes immediately when run.

I guess that's a neutral vote from me!