The increase in light pollution has made it difficult for most people to experience a truly starry night sky; consequently, star projectors have become increasingly popular as a solution to this problem. However, there are still some bright celestial objects that can be seen. If you cannot see the Milky Way due to the presence of city lights, you can use one of these portable devices to enjoy a more pleasant and convenient way to view the night sky. A dimly lit room and access to an electrical outlet are all required to appreciate the cosmos’ wondrousness fully. Many also function as night lights or pattern projectors, which are ways to spruce up a room that does not involve the theme of the heavens. Even though nothing can compare to the awe-inspiring experience of gazing up at millions of stars, even the best star projectors can hold your attention.

How we determined which star projectors are the best

Because I’ve had the good fortune to travel to places with less light pollution, I’ve had the opportunity to experience what it’s like to gaze upon the splendor of our galaxy. As an editor for TechnoBuffalo, I went to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, to obtain more information regarding the Mars rover. In addition, I went on a guided tour of the Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex. There, I saw enormous satellites used to communicate with spacecraft located in deep space. I’ve written about technology and space for publications such as CNN Underscored, TechnoBuffalo, and Popular Science in the past ten years. This guide, in a way, makes it possible for me to continue writing about both of these topics. You have arrived at the incorrect location if you were hoping to find a projector for a movie night (though we do have a guide for the best projectors for indoors and outdoors). Continue reading if, on the other hand, you find the stars in the night sky to be just as captivating as the ones on the screen.

What You Should Think About Before Buying a Star Projector

In most cases, inexpensive star projectors are toys that emit a combination of different colored LED lights and class 2 lasers. Class 2 lasers are low-power visible lasers and are the same type of laser used in laser pointers. Even though most models don’t reflect reality in a way that can be proven scientifically, they still make for a fun way to escape reality and can even be therapeutic. On the other hand, if you are interested in astronomy on a more serious level and are willing to spend more money, you can purchase a star projector that will transform your room into your planetarium.

The majority of the models that we looked into have different control options for things like brightness and color, image rotation, and an automatic shutoff timer. According to our findings, finding the experience best suited to your disposition seems to be the most important consideration when selecting a suitable star projector. Are you looking for the hue of nebulae that represents the cosmos? What about the constellations that are accurate according to science? There is a star projector for everyone, no matter what you’re looking for.

The type of projection

You might think that a star projector can only project stars, given its name. However, many of them can cover a wide range of cosmological phenomena and imitate everything from nebulae and auroras to constellations. As was mentioned earlier, making the right choice is all about determining which one piques your interest and inspires your imagination. If you want to make the room more relaxing before going to sleep, investing in a projector that can simulate a nebula or aurora is a great idea. A star projector that accurately projects images scientifically is an excellent tool for academic research and study.

Adjustable levels of brightness

A quality star projector will utilize an LED bulb and provide several different brightness levels. Star projectors are most useful when used in a completely dark room; however, models that also project nebula and aurora can be used as supplemental lighting in situations such as parties or movie nights. They also make for good night lights and can help create an atmosphere that is calming and conducive to rest.

Color settings

In addition to the ability to change the brightness level, the majority of star projectors also come with various color settings, much like smart light bulbs. The user can create a setting that complements their disposition by adjusting the more advanced color settings and then changing the scene at the touch of a button. A green aurora may be best for those seeking peace, while a yellow one might be best for those seeking joy and hope. Most star projectors offer millions of color options and support color adjustments that can be made using a controller or a smartphone app.

Still vs. rotating

Star projectors typically come with various viewing modes, the most common of which are still and rotating. A projector set in the still mode will maintain its position while projecting light onto a surface. A projector with a feature that rotates the lights will put on a more dynamic light show because it rotates the lights more slowly. The majority of the models that we considered can toggle between a stationary and a rotating state.

Extra features

Some star projectors include additional features in addition to their primary function, which is to project lights onto a wall, such as white noise, app support, and shutoff timers. Some models even can be synchronized with your music, allowing you to put on a light show with a more cosmic feel. Even though these features aren’t required, they make certain models more appealing. This is especially true if you intend to use a star projector in a child’s bedroom because it can double as a night light and a white noise machine and automatically turn off after a set period.

01. Sega Homestar Original Black – Home Planetarium – Star Projector

If you are interested in astronomy and want to use your star projector as an educational tool, the product that most closely resembles a planetarium is Homestar Flux, developed by Sega. The circle it covers has a diameter of 106 inches, and it can project up to 60,000 stars at once. In contrast to the other star projectors on this list, the one manufactured by Sega is compatible with interchangeable discs. This feature enables owners to investigate various universe regions in extraordinary detail. The Homestar Flux comes with two discs: one depicts the northern hemisphere, while the other depicts the northern hemisphere with constellation lines. It also can support additional discs, such as those that depict the Andromeda Galaxy, the southern hemisphere, and other topics.

These discs hold information collected by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the United States Naval Observatory during their respective missions (USNO). The Sega projector may be expensive, but it offers the most scientifically accurate experience and is an absolute necessity for anyone who wants to become an astronomer.

Features

• Sega Toys Homestar Original Planetarium
• Christmas 2021: Order till Friday December 17 and usually receive in time.
• Leading brand with 3-watt white LED technology, timer, adjustable angle and focus
• Attention: Also look for brighter and better Sega Homestar FLUX
• 2 realistic discs and poster included – 30+ optional discs available for purchase

02. Star Projector, Rossetta Galaxy Projector for Bedroom

Those who want to turn their room into a space-themed light show will find that Rosetta’s Star Galaxy Projector has everything they need. This model comes equipped with a Bluetooth speaker, a white noise generator, and the ability to project colorful lights. It can also synchronize with your music and move the lights to the beat, making it a fantastic trick to pull out at a party. A shutoff timer, brightness control, multiple speeds, and multiple color options are some additional features that come standard with the Rosetta Projector. These features allow you to switch things up as the week progresses. Even though the Rosetta Star Projector is more fantastical than realistic, the beauty and mystique of space can still be seen through its lights, which resemble the aurora borealis.

Features

• Upgraded 3 in 1 Star Projector Night Light – This star projector for bedroom has been upgraded to 3 in 1 version of aurora projector, Bluetooth speaker and white noise machine. It now features dual projection lens, able to project northern lights effect with 16 colors and lively star lights skies to create a relaxing atmosphere with soothing music, bringing you to enjoy the beauty of nature. Transform your living room into a beautiful and romantic gateway with peaceful moving lights.
• Sound Activated & Built-in Music Speaker – Our LED galaxy projector has a cool feature where you can have the projection sync with your music and move along with the beat, creating a fun and energetic party atmosphere. You can also connect via Bluetooth to play music from this galaxy light projector and watch in amazement as the little stars and aurora lights move rhythmically to the beat of the music.
• White Noise Sound Machine – The night lights for kids room come preinstalled with 8 different white noise sounds that can help you and your babies, toddlers, and kids fall asleep more easily. The 8 soothing sounds are twinkle little stars, summer night, stream, ocean waves, birds chirping, rain, lullaby, and campfire. Use the kids night light projector as entertainment and the white noise machine as a soothing tool to help you relax and fight off insomnia.
• Remote Control & Auto Off Timer – The star projector comes with a remote control that can freely turn ON/OFF the northern lights and starry night sky, adjust brightness, change the lighting mode, speed, music, and volume. The star projector also has an auto-off timer which you can set to turn off after 1 or 2 hours. No need to worry about leaving it on when trying to fall asleep. Will be off after 4 hours if forgot to set the timer but can be turned back on if want to continue to have it in use.
• Great Room Decor and Gift Ideas – At Rossetta, we value our customers and always try our utmost to provide you with the best kind of service, and customer health and safety assurance. All star projector night lights are FCC, RoHS and CE certified. It’s perfect for you to decorate bedroom, kids room, game room, bathroom, home theatre, ceiling, wall, Christmas decorations, party decorations, wedding, birthday and anniversary. Best gifts for any occasion and great present for family and children.

03. BlissLights Sky Lite 2.0 – RGB LED Laser Star Projector

The Sky Lite 2.0 from BlissLights is an excellent option for adults because it offers app support, brightness controls, and several lighting effects, making it easy to set the proper mood. While star projectors generally become the center of attention in whatever room they’re in, the Sky Lite 2.0 is excellent as complementary lighting, casting colorful auroras during dinner, movie nights, and parties. Additionally, the Sky lite 2.0 supports a rotation feature and a shutoff timer so that you can have your magical night under the stars before nodding off to bed.

Features

• Sky Lite 2.0 instantly projects a field of drifting stars against a transforming RGB nebula cloud (Patent Protected). With no installation required, Sky Lite brings instant mood ambiance to the party, gaming station, meditation space, or mesmerizing night light aura for the bedroom.
• Incorporates a direct diode Laser, precision glass optics, and holographic technologies to create an otherworldly visual experience that cannot be matched.
• With soothing aurora effects that create a relaxing environment in any room, Sky Lite is a standout gift for adults and kids alike.
• Enjoy dining under the stars, create a relaxing spa environment, or accent your home theater in seconds; Sky Lite is an instant game changer for any room in the house.
• Download the app and connect with Bluetooth or use simple button controls that make it easy to cycle through light effects, adjust brightness, or start/stop the rotating motion. This model has a red, blue, and green nebula cloud with GREEN stars.

04. Galaxy Projector, Star Projector Night Light with Voice Control

This straightforward galaxy projector comes with 21 different lighting effects, an automatic shutoff timer, and brightness controls, and it also functions as a night light. In this manner, you can find the effect that best suits your preferences, alters the brightness level, and program a timer before bed. You can also turn the lasers on and off, turning off the stars and allowing you to fall asleep while the nebula-like effect plays in the background. In addition, the Galaxy Projector comes with remote control, which makes it simple for children to use. The Galaxy Projector is an excellent option for parents looking for a way to stimulate their children’s creativity and provide them with a sense of security by acting as a night light.

Features

• 【3-in-1 Star Galaxy Projector Light】 The latest and most unique star projector, which perfectly combines stars, wave and nebula. The colored clouds alternately rotate and project high-resolution stars. The clouds float like ocean waves quietly under the night , allowing you to experience different and interesting starry nights. It can stimulate children’s interest in astronomy. It helps children inspire curiosity, imagination, and creativity.
• 【Music Player and USB Player】Built-in mini Bluetooth 5.2, the starry sky projector night light can be used with smartphones via Bluetooth, and it also has a USB slot option. Not only a nebula projector, but also a music player. Enjoy the fantastic starry while listening to music. The lights flicker with the rhythm of the music, producing a richer starry projection effect! Listen to your favorite music, relax and practice yoga, fitness and meditation to reduce work fatigue.
• 【Music-Activated Lamp & Kid Sleep Aid Night Light】 This kid night light has a romantic and fantastic starry and water wave projection effect and also a sound-activated design, flash with the music or your voice, creating a relaxed, romantic, colorful space projection atmosphere, dance with the star projector. Great to help you relax your body, gentle water waves can guide you to sleep well; Dream of stars and wave projection can make fun for children, accompany children to sleep.
• 【Humanized Operation and Sound Control】 It can be operated not only through the buttons of the Galaxy projector itself, but also through the remote control, without complicated operations. The latest sound control flashing mode, which means that as long as there is music, clapping or other rhythms, the lights will flash according to the rhythm of the music, freely turn on/off the lights, change the light mode and music songs, and easily set the atmosphere.
• 【Multi-Function Design Light Projector】 This starry projector light tweight size, convenient to carry, everywhere can bring a romantic star night for lovers. Joy night light for a kid, enjoy dining under the stars, create a relaxing spa environment, rendering game room light, you can use this planetarium projector for homeroom/wedding/birthday/festival/christmas/decorative lights. So this means you don’t need to buy many lamps, saving you money.

05. 3D Printed 360 Cover Starry Lamp Galaxy Night Light for Kids Bedroom

The Star Projector of the Infantry fires light in all directions through a precut dome to produce an effect similar to the night sky. Additionally, there are five different brightness modes, a breathing mode, and four color options available with this model (white, yellow, blue, and green). There is also a timer that turns the projector off, so you can go to sleep with it on and wake up to find that it has been turned off. It is not nearly as captivating as the other options on this list, but for the price, it is a fun way to introduce someone to the wonders of the universe. Moreover, it is fun to learn about the universe’s wonders.

Features

• Turn your room into a star sky instantly- projects 1 meteor + 1 moon + 12 constellation + 4895 stars.
• 360 Cover Projection-most products on the market can only project a small area, our products can project 4 walls and ceilings.
• Relaxing Light and Shadow Atmosphere – other products on the market are like TV projectors with colorful pictures, our projectors are like candles, which can create a romantic and relaxing atmosphere.
• 4 Different Solid Color (White, Yellow, Blue, Green) +5 Brightness Modes +1 Breathing Light Mode. Our lamp feature custom LED lights sources and have been carefully tuned hundreds of times.
• 3D Printing Manufacturing – Using PLA materials instead of plastic, it took a total of 50 hours to print the product shell. It is the first star projector that you can buy on the market using 3D printing.