A device that helps yot read the night sky

Apr 11, 2007 12:05 GMT  ·  By

If you would like to know more about those "giant balls of gas that got stuck in the black blueish sky", as well as constellation names and positions, then it's safe to assume that this gadget might interest you. Hammacher Schlemer, the retailer of luxury goods, is selling a device that shows you how to distinguish between real stars and fireflies.

You won't be hearing phrases like "Not there, that's a road light!" though. Or "Keep your chin up, you'll see the Orion constellation soon!". It does none of that! Here's how it works. First, the device will determine the month, date, and hour using its rotating perimeter wheel. Then, you'll need to select "Find" or "Identify" in order to allow the gizmo load one of the 20 star map inserts. The bad news is that the maps only show constellations that are visible from mid-northern latitudes. An innovative tracking system will guide your languishing eyes to the proper location. Two adjustable lights illuminate the star map showing you the location of constellations like Orion, Taurus, Aldebaran, Canis Major and so on. A blue color reveals the Zodiacal figures of each constellation, while red lights reveal the name of the stars as well as the lines that connect them to create the imaginary shapes. The Constellation Navigator also has a built-in compass that will probably help your neck synchronize with the device's tips.

One thing it won't do is show you the position of Black Holes. The device requires three AAA batteries (I'm guessing 8 hours life). The Talking Star Navigator will retail for about 70$.

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