Legal
Cookie policy
Cookies are used only where they are needed for account access, preferences, optional analytics, and secure checkout flows.
Effective date: November 20, 2025
What cookies do here
Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit the site. They help the observatory maintain authentication, remember preferences, and protect billing and sign-in flows. Google Analytics stays off unless you explicitly opt in from the consent prompt.
Types of cookies
- Essential cookies: required for authentication and core security.
- Preference cookies: used for saved settings such as units or theme choices when available.
- Analytics cookies: Google Analytics cookies are set only after you explicitly opt in.
- Provider cookies: Google and Stripe may set their own cookies during sign-in or checkout.
Cookies we use
| Cookie name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| next-auth.session-token | Authentication session | Session |
| next-auth.csrf-token | Security token | Session |
| theme | Theme preference | 1 year |
| units | Measurement units preference | 1 year |
| _ga | Google Analytics distinguishes visitors after you opt in | 2 years |
| _ga_<container-id> | Google Analytics preserves session state after you opt in | 2 years |
Third-party cookies and updates
Google OAuth may set its own cookies during sign-in, Stripe sets cookies for fraud prevention and payment processing, and Google Analytics may set the cookies above only after you consent. We may update this policy from time to time and will post any changes here with an updated effective date.
Managing cookies
Most browsers let you review or disable cookies in settings. The observatory also keeps analytics off until you opt in, and you can revisit that choice from the cookie settings control shown in the site chrome. Disabling essential cookies may prevent the observatory from signing you in or completing purchases.
Contact
Cookie questions can be sent to privacy@waether.space.