Past 4.13

Past is an exceptional Windows software that offers a wide range of features for scientific data analysis. It serves as a valuable tool for researchers and professionals involved in various disciplines such as life science, earth science, engineering, and economics. The software's capabilities include data manipulation, plotting, univariate and multivariate statistics, ecological analysis, time series and spatial analysis, as well as morphometrics and stratigraphy.

Since its inception, Past has undergone significant advancements and improvements. Version 3, introduced in 2013, brought about a complete redesign, enhancing the software's functionality and user experience. In 2020, version 4 was released, introducing 64-bit support for improved performance and compatibility.

Past is compatible with multiple Windows operating systems, including Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7. Additionally, it is also compatible with Mac OSX versions Catalina, Mojave, High Sierra, and Sierra, allowing users on different platforms to benefit from its capabilities.

For users interested in utilizing the Open Street Map function within Past, the installation of Webview2 from Microsoft may be required. This feature expands the software's capabilities by incorporating dynamic and interactive maps into the analysis process.

The origins of Past can be traced back to its predecessor, PALSTAT, which was developed specifically for paleontological data analysis by P.D. Ryan, D.A.T. Harper, and J.S. Whalley in 1995. Over the course of more than two decades, Past has undergone continuous development, evolving into a comprehensive statistics package. It has expanded its user base beyond paleontologists and is now widely utilized in various scientific and analytical fields due to its robust and diverse functionalities.