Quick Answer: Planisphere is a rotating star chart, also called a star wheel, used to identify the stars and constellations visible above the horizon at a chosen date and time.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
Rotating circular star map under a visible-sky window
Set by aligning the date with local observing time
Shows how star patterns change with the seasons
Manual, with no electricity needed
Designed for a particular latitude range
About This Product
The chart is turned until the date lines up with the local observing time, and the window then shows the stars and constellations above the horizon. Holding it oriented to the viewing direction marked on the chart, students match the bright star patterns with the real sky. Repeating this at other dates or times shows how the visible sky changes through the year. It is for night-sky use only and never for looking at the Sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Does a planisphere work at any latitude? No. A planisphere is normally designed for a particular latitude range, because the visible sky changes with latitude, so it should suit the observing location.
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