Explore Scientific Tirion Double-Sided Multi-Latitude Planisphere

The Explore Scientific Tirion Planisphere uses two separate star charts to minimize distortion. One side is a polar projection of the northern sky (containing Polaris, Ursa Major, etc.), and the flip side is a separate projection for the southern sky as seen from northern latitudes (containing Scorpius, Sagittarius, etc.). This avoids trying to flatten the entire celestial sphere onto one map, resulting in more accurately shaped constellations, especially those near the celestial equator and southern horizon.

This planisphere is designed for a wide range of northern hemisphere latitudes. While a specific range isn't printed, its multi-latitude design makes it functional for most observers in North America, Europe, and Asia. The separate north and south-facing charts make it more adaptable than planispheres fixed to a single 10-degree latitude band.

Yes. The planisphere is made from dew-resistant plastic and assembled with a non-corroding brass rivet. This construction is specifically intended to hold up to the moisture and handling typical of outdoor observing sessions, making it a reliable tool for use at dark-sky sites or on camping trips.

First, orient yourself by finding the constellation Cassiopeia, which looks like a "W" or "M". On the Tirion Planisphere, locate Cassiopeia. M31 is shown as a small oval shape nearby. The planisphere will show you that by following the stars of the Great Square of Pegasus to the constellation Andromeda, you can star-hop to M31. Set the planisphere to your current date and time to see where Andromeda will be in your sky.

Absolutely. An 8" Dobsonian has a narrow field of view, so knowing where to point it is critical. The Tirion Planisphere is an excellent starting tool because it gives you the "big picture" of the sky for any given night. It helps you learn the major constellations and brightest stars, which are the signposts you'll use to navigate to fainter deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula (M42) or the Hercules Cluster (M13).

Wil Tirion is one of the world's most respected celestial cartographers, famous for creating the charts in definitive atlases like Sky Atlas 2000.0. His charts are known for their accuracy, clarity, and intuitive design. A planisphere with his name on it guarantees a level of cartographic quality and reliability that is trusted by astronomers worldwide.