In the shops
The latest books, apps, software, tech and accessories for space and astronomy fans alike
NASA Retro Galaxy Lamp
Cost: £34.99 (approx. $48.60)
From: thumbsup.com
1 Add some nostalgic flair to your home or office space with this NASA Retro Galaxy Lamp. This impressive rocket stands 50 centimetres (19.7 inches) tall and is the perfect gift for the space – or lava lamp – enthusiast in your life. The lamp requires an R50 E14 40W bulb, which is included, and is powered by UK mains. Simply unbox, assemble, turn on and wait for the mesmerising wax shapes to appear. This NASA lamp effortlessly creates a chilled-out atmosphere with a stellar glow, ideal for both parties or quiet nights in.
Globe Violet & Rose Blue Ceramic Scented Candle
Cost: £19.50 (approx. $27.00)
From: Oliver Bonas
2 This elegantly decorated ceramic-lidded candle with a floral, woody aroma makes for the perfect addition to your home. Measuring 12.5 by 8 centimetres (4.9 by 3.1 inches), this charming little candle is delicately embellished with a deep-navy reactive glaze and hand-painted celestial scenes. With approximately 20 hours burn time, it may be small, but it packs quite the aromatic punch.
It’s fragranced with notes of rich sandalwood and leather tempered by floral middle notes of violet and iris, with base notes of cedarwood and musk.
Light in the Darkness: Black Holes, The Universe and Us
Cost: £10.99 paperback (approx. $15.25)
£20 hardback (approx. $27.80)
From: Waterstones
3 Feed your curiosity and explore the universe from the perspective of astrophysicist Professor Heino Falcke, who helped create the first image of a black hole. This enticing book takes you on a journey from when humans first gazed up at the heavens all the way to modern-day astrophysics and beyond. Addressing big questions, this thoughtprovoking exploration of the universe makes for a very interesting read.
Celestron SkyPortal WiFi module for IOS & Android
Cost: £159 (approx. $220.80)
From: firstlightoptics.com
4 Turn your smartphone or tablet into your very own planetarium and observatory with this nifty module. By plugging the WiFi module into your telescope’s hand control or auxiliary port and connecting to its wireless signal with your device, it becomes a wireless hand controller for your telescope. The SkyPortal app aligns your telescope to a selected target and can inform you of the best objects to view based on your exact time and location.
Perseverance 2020 Mars Rover Illuminated Sculpture
Cost: £119.96 (approx. $166.60)
From: bradford.co.uk
5 Celebrate the monumental triumph of the Mars rover Perseverance with this iconic handcrafted sculpture. This hand-painted replica features adjustable accessories, including the extendable metal robotic arm and a fully rotating replica camera mount. This little sculpture is guaranteed to make a big statement, with built-in LED lights illuminating the rover’s undercarriage and wheels. The base is adorned with full-colour images of Mars as well as the NASA logo and the launch date.
Astronaut rubber Duck
Cost: £6 (approx. $8.30)
From: Science Museum
6 This little rubber duck may not be fully equipped for spaceflight, but it sure takes bath time to a whole new level. Let your imagination run wild and embark on a galactic trip from your bathtub to infinity and beyond. This little astronaut duck makes for a fun and quirky gift for space-loving kids and adults alike.
“This little sculpture is guaranteed to make a big statement”