I regularly use the Skyguide app on my iPhone nowadays and Sky and Telescope Skychart online. I accept that holding up large star maps and twiddling an old and worn planisphere was passé.

I ordered this product ‘for old times sake’ and was delighted to see an improved size, full printed directions and educational notes accompanying.

In the booklet I was glad to see a budding astronomer actually holding it up to the celestial sphere. I learned the constellations on Phillips Chart of the Stars and a London latitude planisphere.

Planispheres are still the best method to non electronically see what is on show tonight or any date or time. Also to ascertain the times of rise, culminate and set.
I’m not sure if Planispheres went out of fashion but it’s definitely back in with me now.

As usual, First Light Optics offer competitive prices and
speedy delivery.

J Engledew FRAS