The Smithsonian Planetarium Projector

With a comprehensive astrology primer developed for children by the Smithsonian Institution, this compact projector re-creates the wonder and excitement of a complete visit to a planetarium. The base unit converts between a working model of our solar system to a projection of a night's sky. Curious young scientists and explorers can turn to the 52-page companion booklet for insightful information about the stars they see and each planet in our system (for example, a lunar weather report: highs of 210° F in the sunlight, dropping to --250° in the shade.) In solar system mode, the base unit holds nine planets on rods that can be spun manually around a central sun. Then the sun can be converted to a projection light with a printed dome depicting the stars and constellations of a night sky (Northern Hemisphere summer only). Requires four AA batteries. Ages 8 and up.