In the shops
The latest books, apps, software, tech and accessories for space and astronomy fans alike
1. For fun
LEGO International Space Station
Cost: £64.99 / $69.99
From: lego.com
Build your very own International Space Station with this striking 864-piece LEGO kit. Don’t be put off by this challenging build, as the kit also comes with a 128-page building instruction booklet to guide you through the construction process. Once assembled, this incredible ISS kit can be mounted on the included display stand. Designed by LEGO fan Christoph Ruge, who is passionate about space, this ISS design was championed by the fan community and selected as the ideal set to celebrate the tenth anniversary of LEGO ideas.
2. For astronomy
Astrozap Flexible Dew Shield
Cost: From £21 (approx. $29.30)
From: firstlightoptics.com
Defend your night-sky viewing experience against pesky dew formation with this lightweight dew shield from Astrozap. Available in a range of sizes for all kinds of telescopes, this product is designed to achieve a snug fit for optimal protection. Made from durable ABS plastic with a felt-lined interior and Velcro fasteners, the shield comes with a twoyear guarantee for peace of mind. The design also allows for easy storage by either rolling the shield up or laying it flat. It’s a must-have accessory this astronomy season.
3. For bookworms
Space Explorers: 25 Extraordinary Stories of Space Exploration and Adventure
Cost: Paperback £9.99 (approx. $13.95)
Hardback £14.99 (approx. $20.90)
From: Waterstones
This beautifully illustrated book is a collection of amazing real-life stories about space exploration and adventure. Written by Libby Jackson, human exploration program manager at the UK Space Agency, and illustrated by the talented Leonard Dupond, this is a terrific gift for curious minds. Let your children’s imagination run wild with this insightful and fun book that is guaranteed to take them on an astronomical adventure.
4. For your desk
Science Museum Planet Sticky Notes
Cost: £5.00 (approx. $6.90)
From: Science Museum
Liven up your home, study or work space and never forget something important again with these quirky Science Museum Planet Sticky
Notes – much more interesting to look at than the standard yellow squares! These easy-peel planets come in four unique designs and can stick onto refrigerators, desk surfaces and even walls. The paper notes measure 7.5 by 7.5 by 0.6 centimetres (2.9 by 2.9 by 0.2 inches), and with 60 planets in a pack, there are plenty of opportunities to sit back and take note of the world around you.
5. For indoor observing Sega Homestar Flux
Cost: £169 (approx. $234.91)
From: segatoys.space
This powerful star projector can project onto a ceiling, wall or any other flat surface at a distance of 120 to 290 centimetres (47 to 114 inches). Two discs of the Northern Hemisphere are included, both with and without constellation lines. You can purchase additional discs which include the Andromeda Galaxy and Southern Hemisphere, as well as stunning images of Earth and the Moon. The projections are masterfully created using data from various NASA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the United States Naval Observatory (USNO).
6. For your home Your Night Sky Custom Starmap
Cost: from £40 (approx. $55.80)
From: thenightsky.co.uk
Celebrate that special moment and give the gift of the stars with this custom star map. The simple interface allows you to effortlessly choose a date, time and location for your night sky print. You can further customise your map with additional options regarding constellations and background colours, including black, white and midnight blue. Once you have created your star map you can then have it printed and posted with or without a frame or onto a canvas of varying sizes and orientation. With plenty of ways to make this truly your own, the custom star map makes for a perfectly unique gift.
“The projections are masterfully created using data from NASA, the NOAA and USNO”