The Explore Scientific Tirion Double‑Sided Planisphere 0‑60° North (ES‑TPS018) is a high‑quality star chart tool designed to help amateur astronomers and stargazers identify stars, constellations, and celestial objects visible throughout the year from northern hemisphere locations between 0° and 60° latitude. Crafted with durable materials and precise celestial cartography, this double‑sided planisphere provides dependable guidance for seasonal observing sessions and night sky orientation.

Created by noted celestial cartographer Wil Tirion, this planisphere uses a dual‑face design to reduce projection distortion, offering accurate star maps for both southern and northern sky views. To use, align the date and local time on the rotating celestial dial, then orient the device toward the north to reveal which constellations are rising, setting, or transiting at that moment. Clear symbols indicate major stars and deep‑sky features, providing intuitive sky navigation and helping observers familiarize themselves with the celestial sphere.

Compact, lightweight, and built to last, the Tirion Planisphere is ideal for portable observing, planning sessions, and enhancing your understanding of seasonal star patterns.

Features

• Double‑sided planisphere calibrated for 0°–60° northern latitude observing

• Designed by master celestial cartographer Wil Tirion for precision star mapping

• Durable construction with sturdy rotating celestial dial

• Minimizes map distortion with double‑face design

• Easy to use: align date and local time to reveal visible constellations

• Includes clear symbols for major stars and deep‑sky objects

• Portable and lightweight — ideal for field observing and seasonal planning

Specifications

How to Use the Explore Scientific Tirion Planisphere (ES‑TPS018)

1. Select Your Latitude

   • Determine your observing location’s latitude (between 0° and 60° North).

   • Ensure you are using the appropriate side of the double-sided planisphere for your latitude range.

2. Set the Date and Time

   • Locate the rotating celestial dial on the planisphere.

   • Align the current date on the outer ring with the current local time on the inner ring.

   • Make sure to account for Daylight Saving Time if applicable.

3. Orient the Planisphere

   • Hold the planisphere so that the north direction on the dial points toward true north.

   • This aligns the planisphere with the actual night sky.

4. Read the Star Map

   • The visible stars, constellations, and major deep-sky objects will now appear in the circular window of the planisphere.

   • Stars near the center of the window are directly overhead, while stars near the edge are closer to the horizon.

5. Identify Celestial Objects

   • Match the stars and constellations on the planisphere to the night sky.

   • Use the symbols for major stars and deep-sky objects to locate planets, star clusters, or galaxies.

6. Adjust as Needed

   • If the sky changes (later in the evening), rotate the planisphere to match the new time.

   • This ensures accurate representation of rising, setting, and transiting objects.

7. Tips for Best Use

   • Use the planisphere in dark or dimly lit areas to preserve night vision.

   • Keep it flat and level for accurate orientation.

   • Combine with a red flashlight for reading charts without affecting night vision.

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