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Constellation projectors are a stargazer’s best friend. While nothing quite beats sitting outside with a blanket of stars above you, these projectors allow you to bring the night sky indoors. Their colorful and soothing effects also create a tranquil environment for great for both adults and kids.
Also known as star projectors, these devices are a fantastic sleep aid, making them part of a nightly ritual. While night lights perform a similar function, particularly for children afraid of the dark, constellation projectors provide a more dynamic alternative. Whether it’s a slow projection of stars and planets or a more cartoon-like display of spaceships, constellation projectors can send the biggest insomniac to the world of slumber.
Sleep aside, these projectors also provide entertainment and education, depending on the type of display. And while projectors of the past were often designed for a more expert user, many modern versions are easy to use and set up. However, with so many different types on the market, you’ll want to review the available features before buying one.
Our guide below provides information on what to look for in a constellation projector and how to make your choice. We then follow up with our top 10 recommendations and a handy list of FAQs.
What To Look For When Buying a Constellation Projector
Like most consumer products, no two constellation projectors are the same. While their general function is similar, they come in various sizes, styles, and modes to choose from, so it’s worth reviewing these before you buy one.
If you’re not familiar with constellation projectors, below is a list of important things to consider before making your choice.
Size
When it comes to constellation projectors, size matters a lot. Whether you have small kids or are limited in terms of space to host the projector, knowing how big the device is can make a world of difference.
For instance, many projectors come with small parts that can be a choking hazard to small children. Also, if your children are the primary users of the projector, it can be worth going for one that has large buttons.
On the other hand, if you’re buying the device for yourself, perhaps size doesn’t matter except in terms of where you’ll store the projector. Either way, we’ve provided dimension information on our list below to help you out.
Power Source
Projectors come with different types of power sources, ranging from corded electric to battery-operated. Since projectors are best placed in the center of the room, the last thing you want is to buy one with a short cord and no battery. While many projectors come with both options, you should consider this before purchasing.
For the most flexibility, we advise selecting one with both corded and battery options. This increases your mobility options, especially as you often need to move the projector around to get the best angles. Additionally, a decent projector should provide around 10 to 12 hours of power in terms of battery life.
Timer
Timers are a necessary feature if you intend to use the projector to help you, or your child, fall asleep. While it would be great to have these beautiful images on 24/7, the truth is that they use up a lot of energy. From a fire safety perspective, it’s also not a good idea to run electronic devices like this all night long.
The good news is that most projectors come with a timer option, allowing you to fall asleep with peace of mind that it will shut off at a specified time. While timers vary, they usually have settings that automatically shut the device off after about 3 to 4 hours.
Lighting and Color Modes
Lighting modes are another crucial feature if you want decent customization. For example, you may want a specific color or style of image for different purposes. For example, bright lights that move are great for a party atmosphere, whereas slower, dimmer ones will be more conducive to sleep.
While all projectors have various modes, some have a lot more than others. The MOKOQI Star Projector, for instance, provides over 17 different color options. So, make sure the projector has multiple modes to choose from and that they align with your preferences.
Still vs. Rotating
Constellation projectors come in two primary types — still or rotating. While still projectors are less common, they are ideal for those who want their images to remain static.
Most projectors come with a rotation option, which is great for creating a more dynamic atmosphere. However, bear in mind that the projector will also have different types of rotation so that you can select ones to suit the mood you’re trying to achieve.
Some projectors like Aocosi’s Star Projector even allow some elements to remain static while others are still moving. Therefore, like lighting modes, you’ll want to assess these in relation to your needs.
Display
Projectors come with different options when it comes to the display, allowing you to show more than just stars. While some stick to astronomical themes like moons, planets, or the aurora borealis, others will include other images such as animals.
Displays can also vary in terms of style. For example, if you’re an avid stargazer, the National Geographic Astro Planetarium displays highly realistic star maps. On the other hand, if you’re buying a projector for young kids or babies, the Moredig Night Light projector comes with cartoonish images of animals and spacecraft.
Depending on your uses, check what type of displays the projector has so that you are happy with the style and quality of the images.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is another important consideration when it comes to projectors. If you’re not keen on fiddling with a lot of settings, you’ll want one that is simple to use and ready to go straight out of the box. Some projectors can be more complex and require a bit of DIY skills to get them up and running. If you’re not comfortable with that, it’s best to find one that simply requires plugging in.
Remote Control
Lastly, it’s important to decide whether you want or need a remote control. Not all projectors come with a remote control, so it means you’ll have to adjust the settings and turn it on and off manually. The advantage of having a remote is that you can adjust the projector from afar, which is ideal if you tend to change the settings a lot. Our list below provides options for projectors with and without remotes.
How To Choose the Right Projector
Before you review the different types of projectors, you should first decide who you’re buying it for and why you want or need it. For example, are you buying it for decorative effect? Because you’re an avid stargazer? Or to help your children fall asleep?
Reviewing your reasons for wanting a projector will help you assess the features, especially if it’s your first time owning one. While everyone has differing reasons for purchasing a constellation projector, they can be grouped into three main categories:
Children
Those buying projectors for their kids should select ones that have:
- Durable parts that don’t break easily
- Safe (and larger) parts that won’t be accidentally ingested (if being used for younger children)
- Timer settings
- Kid-friendly images such as animals or animated spaceships
For Adults
Those buying projectors for adults should select ones that have:
- Clear and realistic images
- Adjustable settings for rotation, color, and lighting
- Speakers that play music or FM radio to enhance the effects
- Different lighting modes and easy-to-use power sources like USBs or batteries
For Space Enthusiasts
Those buying projectors because they’re space enthusiasts should select ones that have:
- Accurate, clear, and realistic images
- Adjustable features that enable precise rotation and angle
- The ability to focus on specific objects like planets
- Display a range of astronomical images, including planets, nebulas, and stars
Now that we’ve reviewed the features to look out for when choosing a constellation projector let’s review our top ten list.
10 Best Constellation Projectors
1. Top Pick: Aocosi Star Projector, Galaxy Projector with LED Nebula Cloud
Why We Like It: This customizable star projector produces beautiful, high-quality images of stars and nebula clouds. It also comes with a remote control.
Editor’s Rating: 5 of 5
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions: 6.5 x 6.5 x 3.14 inches
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Type: Rotating
- Timer: Yes
- Remote Control: Yes
At the top of our list is this quiet star projector from Aocosi. It produces images of both stars and nebula clouds, and the diverse display options allow you to show these elements independently or in unison. In other words, you have the luxury of looking at just stars or just nebulas (or both at the same time). The images can also be static or moving, depending on your preference.
Aocosi’s projector also comes with a remote control that allows you to adjust the lighting mode, brightness and turn it on and off. The device comes with 16 different color modes and four different angles, which is great for people who want plenty of options.
While the cord on this unit is a tad short, it makes up for it with its beautiful projection and customizable settings.
Pros:
- Comes with 16 color modes
- Remote control allows changes to lighting, brightness, start/stop
- Quiet projector
- Diverse display options
Cons:
- Cord is a bit short
2. Best Premium: Sega Planetarium Star Projector
Why We Like It: Sega has gone all out with this high-definition device that projects a staggering 60,000 twinkling stars.
Editor’s Rating: 5 of 5
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions: 9.13 x 7.76 x 7.6 inches
- Power Source: Corded electric, USB
- Type: Rotating
- Timer: Yes
- Remote Control: No
Our premium pick is this planetarium star projector from Sega. While it costs significantly more than other options on this list, Sega provides a unique planetarium experience with its high-definition projector. With over 60,000 twinkling stars and quiet disc rotation, adults and kids can sit back and enjoy the feeling of being in another galaxy.
Those interested in astronomy will also appreciate the star map that’s included with the projector. However, we would have liked to see more than two discs included as there are 30 more available for purchase at Sega’s shop.
Along with its realistic star projection, this device can change focus and angle. It also comes with timer options for 15, 30, and 60 minutes.
Pros:
- Projects 60,000 stars
- Produces realistic high-definition images
- Can change focus and angle
- Comes with 15, 30 and 60-minute timers
Cons:
- Only comes with two star discs
3. Easiest to Use: BlissLights Sky Lite 2.0
Why We Like It: This simple sky lite projector from BlissLights is easy to use and produces realistic star projections.
Editor’s Rating: 4.5 of 5
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions: 6.25 x 2.75 x 6.25 inches
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Type: Rotating
- Timer: Yes
- Remote Control: No, but Bluetooth allows some control with a mobile phone
This projector from BlissLights is easy to use and brings a relaxing ambiance to any room. Great for kids and adults, this projector houses a 3-button control panel that allows you to display stars, nebulas, or a combination of both. This device also creates a stunning and realistic star projection, owing to its direct diode laser and glass optics.
While this projector is quite simple in terms of its settings, it does have dimming and brightness options. The projector also rotates quietly, making it easier to sit back and enjoy the galactic experience in silence or with your favorite soothing music.
However, as it doesn’t come with a remote control, you’ll need to download an app and control some of the functions with your phone. Those who prefer to have a remote may want to check out the projectors from Aocosi, Fitfirst, or SOAIY instead.
Pros:
- Beautiful and realistic star projection
- Easy to use
- Has dimming and brightness options
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a stand-alone remote
4. Most Color Options: MOKOQI Star Projector Night
Why We Like It: With 17 different color modes, this vibrant projector provides hours of stargazing relaxation.
Editor’s Rating: 4.5 of 5
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions: 5.4 x 5.4 x 5.9 inches
- Power Source: Battery (AAA), USB
- Type: Rotating
- Timer: Yes
- Remote Control: No
This simple projector can turn any kid’s bedroom into a starry wonderland. With 17 different color modes and eight operation modes, this projector has an abundance of options for gazing at the moon and the stars.
MOKOQi’s projector is battery operated, but it also comes with a USB for handy charging. It also comes with a timer and automatic shutdown feature when the set time ends. This makes it convenient for sleeping and saving energy.
The projector is easy to use and consists of four buttons that control the timer, spin, color, and light mode. However, some features are a bit flimsy, so be careful when handling it.
Pros:
- Has 17 different color modes
- Easy to use
- Quiet rotation
- Vibrant projection
Cons:
- Quality of construction could be better
5. Best Battery Life: Fitfirst Star Projector
Why We Like It: This star projector from FitFirst comes out on top in terms of its long battery life. It also comes with a remote control.
Editor’s Rating: 4.5 of 5
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions: 10.31 x 7.28 x 2.64 inches
- Power Source: Battery (Lithium-Ion), USB
- Type: Rotating
- Timer: Yes
- Remote Control: Yes
This vibrant projector from FitFirst is a “star” when it comes to its long battery life. While its lithium-ion batteries take 4 to 6 hours to power up, the projector can last for several days before the next charge — depending, of course, on how often and long you use it. Just be aware that the charging port can be a bit loose.
As well as its extended battery life, this projector displays everything from a 3D moon to nebulas and breathing stars. The remote control also makes it easy to switch between its nine lighting modes. While some of the images can be more reminiscent of a dance floor than a galaxy, the device makes up for it with quality and sharpness.
Pros:
- Has long battery life
- Great value for money
- Comes with a remote control
- Produces sharp, vivid images
Cons:
- Images could be more star-like
- The charging port can be loose
6. Best Value: Luckkid Multifunctional Night Light Star Projector
Why We Like It: Luckkid’s projector comes with multiple color and scene options while being easy on the wallet.
Editor’s Rating: 4 of 5
Quick Facts
- Dimensions: 5.1 x 5.1 x 5.1 inches
- Power Source: Battery (AA), USB
- Type: Rotating
- Timer: No
- Remote Control: No
Designed to be a night light, this affordable projector creates a colorful and relaxing atmosphere. Equipped with six different lighting effects, the projector can produce anything from solid or faded colors or combinations. It also comes with five different film slides such as magical planets, undersea worlds, happy birthday themes, and more.
To power this projector, you need AA batteries or a USB connection (although the cord is a tad short). Unfortunately, the projector also doesn’t have a timer function, so you’ll need to be sure to turn it on and off at the right times.
Overall, this projector is great value for money and makes a nice gift as a nightlight or decorative effect.
Pros:
- Great value
- Comes with five projector films
- Easy to use
- Produces clear, colorful images
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a timer function
- Short USB cord
7. Best for Kids: Hontry Star Projector
Why We Like It: As far as projectors go, this one gets full marks for its calming effects and quiet sleep environment for kids.
Editor’s Rating: 4 of 5
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions: 67.2 x 5.59 x 5.51 inches
- Power Source: Battery (AAA), USB
- Type: Rotating
- Timer: Yes
- Remote Control: No
Hontry’s star projector makes a fantastic nightlight and creates a soothing ambiance in the room. Its nine rotating colors allow different displays, helping kids fall soundly asleep. The projector also comes with a timer that automatically shuts off when it finishes, saving energy and giving you peace of mind.
This projector also has a kid-friendly dome design that can double as a calming light and a projector. Simply remove the lid, and you’re transported to a relaxing night galaxy. The only downside is that it can be noisy in some settings, and the projection quality is blurry at times. Those wanting a slightly higher quality projector with less noise may want to look at the Aocosi Star Projector instead.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Makes a great night light
- Provides a good environment for sleep
- Appealing design for kids
Cons:
- Louder than other models
- Projection can sometimes be blurry
8. Best for Falling Asleep: SOAIY Aurora Borealis Light Projector
Why We Like It: The combination of pre-installed sounds and galactic images make this a great projector for falling asleep.
Editor’s Rating: 4 of 5
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions: 6.25 x 2.75 x 6.25 inches
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Type: Rotating and Still
- Timer: Yes
- Remote Control: Yes
In terms of relaxation, the SOAIY projector is a top contender. This fantastic device contains seven different light modes and six pre-installed sounds to create a truly calming experience. While the speaker quality isn’t the greatest, the projector is Bluetooth-enabled, which means you can play your own sounds instead.
Another unique feature of this projector is that it displays images of the aurora borealis, making a nice change from just stars or planets. You can also set the projector to rotating or still, which is a customizable perk not found on many other devices. Like other projectors, though, this device also comes equipped with a timer so that you can fall asleep with ease.
Pros:
- Designs are soothing and relaxing
- Includes both still and rotating display settings
- Comes with six pre-installed sounds
Cons:
- Speaker quality could be better
- Volume for installed sounds is not adjustable
9. Best for Nurseries: Moredig Night Light Projector
Why We Like It: Moredig’s soothing night projector comes with cute displays of animals and space objects suitable for infants. It also plays music!
Editor’s Rating: 3.5 of 5
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions: 6.3 x 5.1 x 5.1 inches
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Type: Rotating
- Timer: Yes
- Remote Control: Yes
If the Hontry Star Projector is great for kids, this one takes the top spot for nurseries. Not only does it come with cute display images, but it also plays music to help soothe a sleeping infant. So whether your child enjoys jungle animals or exciting space images, this projector can turn any bedroom into a fantasy world. However, one downside is that the slides can be flimsy and difficult to change.
This projector also comes with a remote control, making it easy to switch between the different lighting modes, adjust the volume, song settings, brightness, and more. The built-in timer can be set for 5 to 500 minutes, which means the device automatically shuts off to save energy.
Pros:
- Comes with child-friendly displays
- Plays music
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Slides can be fiddly and tricky to change
- Some parts of the projector are flimsy
10. Most Educational: National Geographic Astro Planetarium
Why We Like It: This projector from National Geographic produces a realistic night sky and comes with educational posters and information about the major constellations.
Editor’s Rating: 3.5 of 5
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions: 6.3 x 6.3 x 7.48 inches
- Power Source: Batteries (AAA)
- Type: Rotating
- Timer: Yes
- Remote Control: No
National Geographic’s projector has a unique planetarium design and comes with two projection disks, one that depicts 8,000 stars and another that provides guidelines about the major constellations. Both educational and entertaining, this high-quality projector is easy to use, and the buttons light up blue when they’re pressed.
At a slightly higher cost than other projectors on this list, this device produces sharp images and even comes with a “falling star” mode (although the quality can be a bit blurry). Astronomy fans who want sharper images may want to check out Sega’s Planetarium Star Projector instead.
Another cool feature is the built-in FM radio which allows you to listen to music while you gaze. In addition, the projector includes four educational posters and a 3.5 mm jack cable, which allows you to connect it to a radio or other device such as a music player.
Pros:
- Projects a realistic night sky
- Connects to FM radio and other devices
- Unique planetarium design
Cons:
- Edges of projection can be blurry
- On the pricey side
Constellation Projector FAQs
Q: How much do constellation projectors cost?
Constellation projectors can be as low as $15 and as high as $250+. However, most standard projectors average around $30 – $50, as seen on our list above.
Q: Can you use a constellation projector on any wall?
Projectors can be used on any type of wall. However, they work best on clear and light-colored ones, such as cream, white, or grey. Dark walls will lessen the brightness and quality of the images, so try to project onto a white or cream wall if you can. If you have a wall with objects or patterns, it will interfere with the projected images.
If your walls are too busy or cluttered for the projector, it’s worth investing in a projection screen, although it may not be as effective.
Q: What are the benefits of using a constellation projector?
Constellation projectors can be used for a variety of reasons. But one of the biggest benefits these projectors provide is ambiance and atmosphere. Whether you’re aiming for excitement or relaxation, the range of colors, rotation, and color modes on a constellation projector can greatly affect the mood of a room.
These projectors are also highly effective at helping with insomnia. Constellation projectors can be very soothing if your child is afraid of the dark and has difficulty falling asleep. Also, because these projectors often come with timers, it means you can leave the display on for as long as you or your child needs to fall and stay asleep.
Constellation projectors can also induce relaxation. Since many people benefit from white noise, projectors often come with built-in sounds or can be hooked up to music players. So along with the projector’s calming images, background sounds or tranquil music can enhance relaxation.
Lastly, constellation projectors encourage education and creativity. Kids who regularly look at the display may be curious about astronomy, which could get them interested in science. As some devices also come with star maps and other info, they also provide information for both kids and adults who are inquisitive about the night sky.
Q: Are projectors for kids and adults the same?
While constellation projectors are suitable for both kids and adults, many are designed to help children fall asleep. The difference mainly comes down to the type of display. Adults, for instance, may want projectors that provide clear and realistic images, whereas small children will benefit from more cartoon-like displays. While we’ve tried to cover a range of styles on our list above, it’s worth reviewing these carefully so that you’re choosing one that best suits your needs.
Final Thoughts
Constellation projectors are a fantastic way to create a star-like ambiance in your room. Whether you’re a fan of astronomy or aiming to help your child fall asleep, these projectors can inject relaxation and tranquility into any space.
However, as seen from the list above, constellation projectors come in a range of different types, and they vary by size, and lighting, and color modes. By knowing your reasons for buying a projector and what features are available, you can make a more informed decision.
We hope our guide has given you the information you need to select the best constellation projector for your needs. Enjoy looking at the stars!
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