Best star projectors 2024: From night lights to home planetariums
The best star projectors bring the cosmos inside: Scientifically accurate home planetariums, ambient lights for parties or simple night lights for kids.
- April 8 solar eclipse: Best solar eclipse glasses March 2024
- Quick list
- Best overall
- Best for space-themed parties
- Best for voice control
- Best budget model
- Best for pastel shades
- Best value rechargeable
- Best for homeschooling
- Best multi-functional
- Best generalist
- Best for portability
- Best for multi-media ambiance
- Star projectors FAQ
- How we test
1. The list in brief ↴
2. Best overall
3. Best multi-functional
4. Best for space-themed parties
5. Best for voice control
6. Best budget model
7. Best for pastel shades
8. Best value rechargeable
9. Best for homeschooling
10. Best generalist
11. Best for portability
12. Best for multi-media ambiance
13. Star Projectors FAQ
14. How we test
Are you in the market for one of the best star projectors? You've come to the right place. We've rounded up some of our favorite star projectors right here, all of which can project beautiful recreations of the night sky on your walls and ceilings.
Star projectors, also known as home planetariums, come in different sizes and styles, and we've listed a variety here, catering to different budgets. Some aim to recreate the night sky accurately, which can be great for learning. Others are more like light shows inspired by real nebulas. Many also have speakers built-in, making them perfect for relaxation, even if the projections aren't true to life.
When could you use a star projector? Honestly, anytime. We've noticed that kids especially enjoy them, finding them relaxing for bedtime or sleep. Some star projectors even teach kids about space. But don't think they're just for kids — adults enjoy them too, often using them to unwind. They're also fun for parties, especially if you are hosting a space-themed event.
In this guide to the best star projectors, you'll find a summary of each projector we've included and a link to a full review. There are links to buy each projector at the best price from trusted retailers and a quick summary of each one's pros and cons. There is a total solar eclipse coming up on April 8, so if you want spectacular real-life views, you must use sufficient solar observation gear.
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The quick list
Best overall
Best overall
The most realistic star projector that projects bright, detailed images of the real night sky. This is a premium projector for all ages.
Best rechargeable
Best value rechargeable
This rechargeable star projector emits bright, colorful and sharp imagery that gives the best star projectors we've tested a run for their money.
Best budget
Best budget
A well-made novelty star projector that every kid, or space fan, will love to have in their bedroom.
Best for homeschool
Best for homeschool
One of the most reasonably priced star projector STEM toys for budding astronomers who want a glimpse of the night sky at home.
Best for parties
Best for space-themed parties
16.7 million colors to choose from, adjustable brightness settings, compatible with Android and iOS.
Best for voice
Best for voice control
Better suited to mood lighting, the Atmosphere Smart Galaxy shows patterns and colors that mimic galaxies and nebulas but are in no terms scientifically accurate.
Load the next 5 products ↴
Best pastel shades
Best for pastel shades
The newest star projector from BlissLights features color blend technology, voice and app control. A great option for anyone shopping for a mood-enhancing star projector.
Best multi-functional
Best multi-functional
It has great functionality, with a time and date selector and a built-in-speaker and it's scientifically accurate.
Best generalist
Best generalist
This Bresser planetarium star projector, designed for kids, has true-to-life projections, a time and date selector, a shooting star function and a sleep timer.
Best for portability
Best for portability
An instant way to transform your space into a pleasing sensory laser environment.
Best for muti-media
Best for muti-media ambiance
It isn't scientifically accurate but it displays vivid nebula-inspired patterns to enhance the ambience in any room.
Best star projectors we recommend in 2024
Why you can trust Space.com
Best overall
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to explore the skies: There are plenty of discs available for this projector, all of which are scientifically accurate, most of which is NASA-based imagery.
❌ You're on a budget: This is the most expensive option on this list, so if you're on a budget, there are more suitable options that perform almost just as well.
❌ You just want a pretty light: For anyone who just wants a nice mood-setting light, this will likely be overkill.
🔎 Sega Toys Homestar Flux Great for recreating a realistic-looking night sky inside. It's on the pricier end of the market but the option to upgrade your disc collection is attractive. The night sky representation is about as realistic as it gets. ★★★★½
There's no doubt about it: the Sega Toys Homestar Flux is the best star projector you can buy. It's more expensive than most on this list, however, and it can occasionally be hard to get hold of. But if you can afford it and do manage to see it in stock, you won't regret buying it: Very few other star projectors offer the same experience as this.
The Homestar Flux creates lifelike night skies right in your living room. With advanced glass lenses, it's bright and colorful even in rooms that aren't completely dark. It's more than just a simple projector—it's like having your own personal planetarium, thanks to its high level of scientific accuracy. It can display up to 60,000 stars with precision, and you can adjust the focus to get the perfect display on your walls and ceiling.
What sets the Sega Homestar Flux apart is that it can be expanded with different discs, with two included with purchase. One shows the Northern Hemisphere, and the other is the Northern Hemisphere Constellations, with constellations labeled to aid education.
There are 30 additional discs available for around $18 each when you visit Astrial, Sega Toys' official online store. Simulations of the aurora borealis and the aurora australis are perhaps the highlights, in our opinion.
There is a disc that displays the planets of the solar system as well, but the ones that show galaxies, nebulas and other NASA-based imagery are the ones that really stand out. For example, the North America nebula as taken by NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope and the weird seven-star system called Jabbah (officially called Nu Scorpii and IC 4592) as imaged by NASA's WISE mission. You can also buy disks that simulate fireworks, 'night jellyfish' and a hot-air balloon festival.
Like many other star projectors, there's a 'shooting star' function, although, in our Sega Homestar Flux review, we found it a bit predictable because the star always fell in the same spot. It would've been nicer if it had more variation to make it feel more real. Plus, it has an automatic shut-off option after 15, 30 or 60 minutes, which is handy if you're using it to fall asleep and don't want to get up to switch it off!
- Read our full Sega Toys Homestar Flux star projector review
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Premium finish and build quality. |
Performance | Excellent brightness, sharp imagery. |
Functionality | Variety of stargazing discs, no novelty lights or lasers. |
Best for space-themed parties
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to pair it with music: We were impressed with the musical rhythm mode, where the lights flash and dance along to the beat of the music.
❌ You want scientific accuracy: It's not a scientifically accurate projection, although that said, it's the most realistic-looking one we've tested.
🔎 Aurora Borealis Northern Lights Star Projector It's highly customizable, the patterns are realistic and the music rhythm mode is impressive. This is one of our favorites. ★★★★½
Honestly, we're not sure what we love most about this feature-rich Aurora Borealis Northern Lights Star Projector. It might not be scientifically accurate, but it packs in a lot of great features.
One of the best features is how much you can customize it. You can make the stars more or less visible, turn on a full moon and change the colors of the Aurora Borealis to match your mood. There are 16.7 million colors to choose from (in theory), and you can adjust the LED light and green lasers to your preferred brightness. Plus, you can control it with the remote control it comes with or through the accompanying app on your smartphone.
Phew. That's a lot of stuff, but we've only just scratched the surface. In our Aurora Borealis Northern Lights Star Projector review, we talked about the projectors' musical rhythm mode, remarking how much fun it is to listen to music and adjust the lighting display to match the 'feel' of the music. It's a great relaxation tool and creates a wonderful ambiance.
Bluetooth speakers are often of low quality, but we found this speaker was surprisingly high-quality with excellent sound clarity and detail. The adjustable sound settings are a bonus, allowing you to personalize the sound to your preference and switch between different music genres.
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Matte black finish. |
Performance | Realistic looking aurora. |
Functionality | App or remote (supplied) controlled. |
Best for voice control
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want voice activated: You can control this projector using your smart home devices (Alexa & Google etc), meaning you don't have to fiddle with buttons to set the mood.
❌ You want it to be scientifically accurate: It doesn't show any constellations or any type of scientific night sky projections — you'll need to pay more for that.
🔎 Encalife Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Star Projector: Although it is called a Galaxy Star Projector, like most others, this is more of a mood-setting light, showing colors and patterns that reflect galaxies and nebulas with lasers that you could associate with a starry sky. ★★★★
During our Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Projector review, we were impressed by its sleek design, which will delight many. It's modern and compact, allowing users to place it anywhere in the house without ruining the aesthetic and sticking out like a sore thumb. The unit can be adjusted to four angles, making it flexible enough to project onto either the wall or the ceiling.
We love how simple it is to use and set up the Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Projector. One standout feature is its voice control options, allowing you to change colors, adjust brightness and control the rotation speed using just your voice. It works seamlessly with Alexa or Google Assistant, but if you prefer, you can use the smartphone app, available for both iOS and Android.
The Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Projector offers an impressive 16.7 million colors, which sounds fantastic in theory, however, in reality, it's highly unlikely you'll be able to make out all those colors with the naked eye. But don't let that discourage you! It still delivers an amazing light show experience.
The only thing to note about the Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Projector is that the nebulas and stars aren't scientifically accurate. However, if you're looking for a beautiful light display, you'll be delighted with it. We enjoyed the experience so much that we didn't feel disappointed. We especially liked the ability to adjust both brightness and projection speed, making it perfect for creating a serene environment to relax in or an energetic party scene.
The Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Projector has a USB power cable and attractive packaging, which would be lovely to receive as a gift.
- Read our full Encalife Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Star Projector review
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Compact design and shape, premium feel. |
Performance | Bright & vivid colors, responsive controls. |
Functionality | Highly customizable. |
Best budget star projector
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You're buying for your child: It features more of a novelty astronaut design that's primarily aimed at children, though in our experience, adults love it too!
❌ The price is too high: This is another star projector where the price fluctuates wildly — we've seen it priced anywhere from $10 to $100, we'd be happy paying anything less than $35 for it.
🔎 Astronaut Starry Sky Star Projector: A well-made novelty star projector that every kid, or space fan, will love to have in their bedroom. It isn't quite on par with other star projectors performance-wise, but it does everything we'd expect of it, given its reasonable price. ★★★★
When we managed to get our hands on this little guy for our Astronaut Starry Sky Star Projector Review, we didn't have high expectations for this seemingly novelty item, particularly as we've seen its price vary significantly between online and in-store retailers.
Since going viral on TikTok, several retailers have started offering their own versions, leading to price competition. You can snag a great deal on this little guy if you shop around. We suggest not paying more than $30 for it, as some are available for as low as $10.
While we're including the Astronaut Starry Sky Star Projector as one of our best star projectors, it needs to be considered a novelty item first and foremost, mostly due to its fun astronaut shape. But while most novelty pieces tend to be cheaply made, we've found this one to be an exception. Its packaging isn't the best but the product inside is well made and it looks fantastic. Just be aware that different retailers are selling products that aren't all identical, so they may vary in quality somewhat due to retailers hopping on the trend.
In operation, the Astronaut Starry Sky Star Projector is surprisingly great. As we mentioned in our review, the lighting module seems to be the same — if just a tiny bit less impressive — as other star projectors we have reviewed, including the BlissLights Sky Lite 2.0 and the Encalife Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Star Projector. It isn't based on science, unfortunately, but as long as you're happy to simply enjoy a pretty visual representation of the night sky, you'll get a lot of joy out of this. It helps it's very quiet in use, too.
The only downside we found is that it's powered by a USB-A to DC cable, which feels a bit outdated; we would prefer USB-C. Other than that, it's a fantastic gift for any space enthusiast, no matter the occasion.
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Novelty design more suited to children, but surprisingly good quality. |
Performance | Bright lights and lasers, pretty patterns. |
Functionality | Customizable settings, sleep timer. |
Best for pastel shades
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a lot of customization: Although the laser 'stars' can only appear as blue or green (depending on which model you get), the clouds offer a lot of color customization through the app.
✅ You want it to be compatible with your smart device: It can work with both a Google and Alexa home device, so you can turn it on and off, and give other commands with your voice.
❌ You want it to be scientifically accurate: This projector is better for atmosphere and projecting pretty colors rather than providing any kind of scientific accuracy.
🔎 BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve The nebulas are bright and endearing, complimented perfectly by the hue of the blue/green lasers. This is a great option for anyone shopping for a mood-enhancing star projector (rather than a scientific one). ★★★½
This Evolve star projector is the most recent so-called 'galaxy light' to come from BlissLights, and it may be the best yet. It features voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant, meaning you can change the colors simply by using your voice, which is great if you're using it to relax and don't want to have to get up to change it or turn it off.
The BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve has a spherical design, which means you have near 360-degree angling. Few other star projectors offer so much coverage, and coming with a 1.5m cable, too, you should be able to position it in the best place in your room.
In our BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve review, we praised its almost-silent operation — just like its predecessor, the Sky Lite 2.0. Another improvement compared to the Sky Lite is the integration of patented color blending technology. Essentially, instead of using solid color blocks, the four LED lamps provide a broader range of color options. This results in blended colors, offering a softer, pastel-like appearance, which is perfect for setting a calming atmosphere.
The BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve is ideal for a gaming room, party, movie night or as a relaxation tool to unwind or drift off to sleep with. There are three models to choose from — pick between blue, green or no lasers.
- Read our full BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve review
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Small and discrete, spherical design. |
Performance | Bright stars and nebulas. |
Functionality | Highly customizable. |
Best value rechargeable star projector
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want realistic imagery: The projections from this projector are incredibly bright, sharp and high resolution, almost indistinguishable from the 'big players'.
❌ You just want something cheap to set the mood: This certainly isn't the most expensive model on this list, but if all you're looking for is a projector with nice lights to create a relaxing atmosphere, there are cheaper options that will do the job.
🔎 Pococo Galaxy Star Projector It does what it is supposed to — it projects high-quality imagery onto any surface to immerse you in the wonders of what the universe has to offer, maintaining a static picture or slowly rotating image. ★★★★
The Pococo Galaxy Star Projector is a worthy addition to this guide, and a good rival to the National Geographic Astro Planetarium and the much more expensive Sega Homestar Flux. During our full Pococo Galaxy star projector review, we thought it was a good value star projector with decent build and projection quality.
You can purchase extra discs alongside the two included ones, with six discs typically priced at around $50. This projector strikes a nice balance, appealing to both kids and adults. It's available in a stylish color gradient paint job or a matte white finish. Adjusting the clarity of the projection is simple by using the focus wheel, which is handy if you want to move it between different surfaces or rooms.
The Pococo Galaxy Star Projector is super easy to control, utilizing just three buttons on its body: Power, rotation and sleep timer. Its rechargeable battery can be charged with a USB-C cable, so it doesn't have to be connected to a power source while it's in use.
The downside of the Pococo design is that you only have 30 degrees of movement to shine the lights, although as you'll typically be shining this at the ceiling, this isn't a deal breaker.
- Read our full Pococo Galaxy star projector review
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Simple, attractive design. |
Performance | Bright, high-resolution projections. |
Functionality | Simple operation, no apps needed, rechargeable. |
Best for homeschooling young children
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ Your kids are interested in space: More of a planetarium than a star projector, it's a great educational STEM toy that will help your kids learn more about space.
❌ You want more of a customizable star/nebula projector: This is more of an educational item than a mood-creating star projector, so if that's what you're looking for, there are better options.
🔎 Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium Star Projector A neat little STEM toy with multiple functions. Kids between 6 and 10 will love to learn more about space with this hands-on device. ★★★½
Having completed a recent Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium and Star Projector review, we feel that it deserves a spot in this guide as a great STEM toy that will captivate kids ages 6+, and, in our opinion, spark their interest in all things space-related.
This particular projector is aimed at children, so the stars it projects aren't scientifically accurate like you'd find on the more 'adult' Sega Homestar Flux. But it still features a slide projector and three easy-to-handle discs containing 24 color images taken by the Hubble Telescope. Each included disc has a different theme; Nebulas, Spacecraft & Astronauts and Planets & the Moon.
Instead of using digital controls, you operate it manually. However, there's a "secret code" you can use to access additional informative descriptions of the pictures on the slides online. This allows children to learn more about space objects and adds a fun and mysterious element to the experience.
Considering its reasonable price tag and the many educational benefits it offers, we think this projector is a worthwhile investment for homeschooling or simply learning about space with your child.
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Looks like R2-D2. |
Performance | Projection is clear & bright. |
Functionality | Portable with no cables. |
Best multi-functional scientific star projector
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want true projections: The projections are true to the date and time that you 'program' it to (if you're in the Northern Hemisphere)
✅ You're buying for your child: While it's not a toy, we think it's aimed more at the younger market who have a keen interest in astronomy.
❌ You just want something to project nice lights: If you just want an affordable little projector to set the mood of your room, you may as well choose one of the cheaper options on this list.
🔎 National Geographic Astro Planetarium would make a nice space gift for a budding astronomer. It has great functionality, with a time and date selector and a built-in speaker. ★★★★½
The National Geographic Astro Planetarium is a high-quality indoor planetarium that accurately depicts our beautiful night sky, offering excellent value at an affordable price. It comes with two projection discs — one displaying 8,000 stars and the other featuring guidelines for major constellations. Impressively, what you see is true to the time and day you're using it, as we mentioned during our hands-on National Geographic Astro Planetarium review.
To get a clear and bright projection on your ceiling, just rotate the image and use the focus wheel (which is easier to see in the dark because of the illuminated blue buttons). The optics are from Bresser, a well-known German brand famous for making binoculars, telescopes and microscopes. However, we did notice that stars at the edges of the projection can sometimes look a bit blurry.
In the box, you'll get AA batteries, a 3.5mm jack cable (for connecting an audio device or smartphone) and four educational posters. By hooking up an audio device, you can listen to your favorite music or even the radio while enjoying the stunning projections from the projector.
One novel feature here is the 'falling star' mode. It projects a flashing meteor every 40 seconds, although we think it's a shame the falling star is always in the same place. A level of randomization would make it a bit more enjoyable and unpredictable.
- Read our full National Geographic Astro Planetarium review
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Yellow accents not particularly inconspicuous. |
Performance | Projection is bright and easy to focus. |
Functionality | Integrated radio/speaker. |
Best for generalist projection
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a realistic night sky: It comes with two disks — one featuring a starry night sky and the other featuring overlays of constellations — both of which are correct to the time and date you're using it.
❌ You want it to have a speaker: If you want a star projector that features a speaker, you'll have to look at other options.
🔎 Bresser Junior Astro-Planetarium Deluxe This Bresser planetarium star projector, designed for kids, has true-to-life projections, a five-year warranty and is simple to operate. It has a time and date selector, a shooting star function and a sleep timer, and it ships with two disks. ★★★½
The Bresser Junior Astro-Planetarium Deluxe is similar to the National Geographic Astro Planetarium we featured above. They share the same basic features and offer the same projections, but there are some key differences.
Firstly, the Bresser doesn't include an FM radio, nor can you attach an audio device. It can only be battery-powered, and this one comes with a silver and black body, which, in our opinion, looks a little more 'grown-up' than the yellow highlights of the National Geographic star projector.
As we mentioned in our Bresser Junior Astro-Planetarium Deluxe review, the same Astro Planetarium disks can be used in both devices, with two included in the box: one features a starry night sky, and the other has constellation overlays. You can set a day and time on the device, making the projections accurate for that time — a very nifty feature to have.
You can rotate the image in its stand, and it's fully mobile with built-in motors allowing for 360-degree movement. We found that it works best when the images are projected from about two meters away. Bresser designed the lens with a focusing wheel for easy image adjustment. Like many star projectors, it has automatic shutdown options after 30, 60 or 120 minutes, making it suitable for kids who want to fall asleep under a starry sky in their bedroom. Additionally, it includes a shooting star mode, projecting a 'meteor' every 40 seconds.
There are minimal differences between this and the National Geographic Astro Planetarium, but this is a little cheaper. If you don't want music compatibility and you're happy for it to be battery-powered, it's probably worth considering over the other.
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Silver & black design, but dated packaging. |
Performance | Date & time feature works well. |
Functionality | Battery powered (no mains option). |
Best for portability
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want something portable: This star projector is so small it could be mistaken for a flash drive. Perfect for on-the-go ambiance.
❌ You want customization: If you want to change the colors, brightness or add rotation to the lasers, then you'll want to go for a different model.
🔎 BlissLights Starport USB star projector A pocketable device for adding instant ambiance to parties, gaming rooms, music studios or spas, but we use the term star projector very loosely. ★★★½
Given that it only has one function, this is a rather unusual entry on this list of best star projectors. We still think it's worth being featured, though: it's completely 'faff-free' and can instantly transform your surroundings with beautiful celestial projections. But as we said in our BlissLights Starport USB star projector review, you should probably use the term "star projector" loosely.
Simply plug it into a USB power source, and it will fill the room with hundreds of laser stars, creating a beautiful and immersive experience. It lacks any kind of scientific accuracy or customization options, but nevertheless, we think it's a great choice if you're looking for a portable star projector for relaxation or a calming light show.
We particularly like this option given how affordable it is, and if you travel around a lot, you can pop it in your pocket to take it with you — it takes up virtually no space. Maybe you're a gamer wanting to enhance your space, or perhaps you want to make bedtime more enlightening for your child — it will do those jobs valiantly, too.
If you want more advanced features or something more scientifically accurate, you should probably choose something else over the BlissLights Starport.
- Read our full BlissLights Starport USB star projector review
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Tiny device, looks like a flash drive. |
Performance | Lasers are very bright and fill a large area. |
Functionality | Does what it's meant to and nothing more. |
Best for multi-media ambiance
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a projector & speaker combo: This is a 2-in-1 projector and speaker and, surprisingly, we found the speaker to actually be pretty decent quality.
❌ You want something scientifically accurate: Much like all the cheaper options on this list, this projector is solely for mood and ambiance rather than scientific accuracy. If that's what you're looking for, you're going to have to pay more.
🔎 Encalife Ambience Galaxy & Star Projector: A neat combination of a star projector and Bluetooth speaker built into one. It isn't scientifically accurate but it displays vivid nebula-inspired patterns to enhance the ambience in any room. ★★★½
Compared to the Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Projector, the Ambience Galaxy & Star Projector has fewer lighting modes, but we don't see it as a drawback. It provides four colors: blue, green, white and red, which you can blend using the included remote control and adjust the brightness according to your preference.
We were pleasantly impressed by the sturdy construction of this small star projector. While the packaging may be lacking, the unit itself is well-built, and the lights are bright enough to set a lovely ambiance or enhance any party atmosphere.
Its sleek black color blends in with many home decors, and it can also function as a music player, allowing you to listen to your favorite music or atmospheric sounds as you watch the celestial shadows dance across the ceiling and walls. When we reviewed the Encalife Ambience Galaxy and Star Projector, we found the speaker to be surprisingly high quality and audibly well-rounded.
The faceted dome shape means the lights can be projected and dispersed over 180-degrees, meaning the entire ceiling is covered with lights. You'll need to set up your phone's Bluetooth before you start using the projector, which is easy enough to do, and then you'll be up and running in no time.
Like the Atmosphere Smart Galaxy Projector, you won't get scientific accuracy, but you'll get a fantastic 'insomnia-busting' experience that allows your children (or yourself) to sleep better at night.
- Read our full Encalife Ambience Galaxy and Star Projector review
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Sleek & compact design. |
Performance | Bright, vivid lights. |
Functionality | Nice amount of customization, decent in-built speaker. |
Star projectors Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best star projector?
The Sega Toys Homestar Flux is the best star projector you can buy right now. We’ve tested and reviewed a range of star projectors and concluded that, because it's a premium model, the Homestar Flux projects an incredibly accurate night sky, with the possibility of buying up to 30 extra disks to project the Milky Way, shooting stars, and the aurora.
Are star projectors realistic?
Not all star projectors are scientifically accurate — some are designed to be pleasant ambient lights to be used as kids' night lights or just to create a relaxing atmosphere. However, some models are scientifically accurate and create a planetarium in the comfort of your own home — these include the the Sega Toys Homestar Flux, National Geographic Astro Planetarium and Bresser Junior Astro-Planetarium Deluxe.
What is the difference between a star projector and a planetarium?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, star projectors can also be used to refer to unrealistic night and ambient or mood-enhancing lights that aren't scientifically accurate. Planetariums on the other hand are strictly realistic and accurate depictions of the night sky, which are sometimes even time and location-sensitive to show you the night sky as it appears at a given time.
How do I choose a star projector?
In this buying guide, we've tested and reviewed a range of star projectors and ranked them according to performance, quality and budget. We've included a variety of options at different price points with a range of features, so you're sure to find one that suits your needs and budget. We continue to monitor the market for different models, and we'll share our favorites with you.
Can I leave a star projector on all night?
In theory, yes. Most models of star projectors run from mains AC power or DC through a USB port, so they will run as long as they are plugged in. Some models are battery-powered, meaning you run the risk of the battery running out of power overnight.
Most star projectors come with a 'sleep timer' that will switch the device off after a specified amount of minutes.
It's important to check the manual that comes with your star projector before you leave it running for extended periods of time, as some models may become hot after prolonged use. Always resort to the manual if in doubt and follow the instructions.
Are star projectors good for babies?
The star projectors designed as night lights can be good for babies and small children, as they create soothing ambient lighting, and can add enjoyment to bedtime routines and help your baby drift off to sleep. Some models include swirling light patterns and small flashes of light, so they may not be suitable for babies with light sensitivities or conditions like epilepsy. If in doubt, consult your doctor or local physician before using them.
What are the best star projectors on Amazon?
Most of the star projectors we've tested and included in this guide are available to buy on Amazon. The links directly underneath each section of the buying guide will take you to the recommended merchant's website.
How much do star projectors and home planetariums cost?
Prices vary depending on the model of your choice and how many features you are after. Generally, you can buy a good quality star projector for anywhere between $25 and $250. The cheaper models tend to be destined to be used as night lights and are generally inaccurate in their depiction of the night sky. More premium models like the Sega Toys Homestar Flux are more expensive but offer scientifically accurate depictions of the night sky.
Are laser star projectors safe?
The answer to this question depends on the type of star projector you're considering. Some FDA-approved laser star projectors are safe for brief and accidental exposure to eyes, but they are not recommended for children, and you should never look directly into a laser beam.
The U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that 'The FDA recognizes four major hazard classes (I to IV) of lasers, including three subclasses (IIa, IIIa, and IIIb). The higher the class, the more powerful the laser is and the greater the potential to pose serious injury if used improperly.'
In reference to Class IIIa lasers (like laser pointers or some used in star projectors), the FDA says: 'Depending on power and beam area, can be momentarily hazardous when directly viewed or when staring directly at the beam with an unaided eye. Risk of injury increases when viewed with optical aids.'
If in doubt, check the laser classification on the device before purchasing and check it against the FDA rules, or a relevant health and safety body in your region.
How we test the best star projectors
To guarantee you're getting honest, up-to-date recommendations on the best star projectors to buy here at Space.com we make sure to put every star projector through a rigorous review to fully test each product. Each star projector is reviewed based on a multitude of aspects, from its construction and design, to how well it functions as a star projector and whether it provides accurate night sky imagery.
Each star projector is tested by either our expert staff or knowledgeable freelance contributors who know their subject areas in depth. This ensures fair reviewing is backed by personal, hands-on experience with each star projector and is judged based on its price point, class and destined use. For example, comparing a top-of-the-range star projector from one of the largest producers of star projectors to a make-your-own kit made from cardboard wouldn't be appropriate, though each star projector might be the best-performing product in its own class, and that is how we've categorized them in this guide.
1. If you want it to be scientific, look for a simulation according to the actual time and day.
2. The smaller the room, the sharper the stars will look.
3. Check how many disks come with each product (if it uses them) or see if you can purchase add-ons.
4. Choose a model with a sleep-timer if using it as a night light.
5. Decide if you want to control it with a remote, app or smart device.
We look at how easy each star projector is to operate, test out all their functions to see if they are effective and work as advertised. We check that the projections are good, that the build quality is fit for purpose and make suggestions for the most appropriate use of each unit.
With complete editorial independence, Space.com is here to ensure you get the best buying advice on star projectors, advising on whether you should purchase a product, making our buying guides and reviews reliable and transparent.
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Jamie is an experienced science, technology and travel journalist and stargazer who writes about exploring the night sky, solar and lunar eclipses, moon-gazing, astro-travel, astronomy and space exploration. He is the editor of WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com and author of A Stargazing Program For Beginners, and is a senior contributor at Forbes. His special skill is turning tech-babble into plain English.
- Jase Parnell-BrookesChannel Editor
- Kimberley LaneContributing writer
- Tantse WalterContributing Writer