Five Star Gift Ideas

For your grandson who is passionate about amateur astronomy and astrophotography, there are several thoughtful gift ideas that can inspire and enhance his hobbies. Here are some suggestions that could make his birthday extra special:

1. Telescope: Consider upgrading his telescope or gifting him a reliable one if he doesn't have it already. Look for a telescope with good optics and suitable for astrophotography. Research on models like Celestron NexStar series or Orion SkyQuest telescopes, which have received positive reviews.

2. Astrophotography Equipment: Enhance his astrophotography skills by gifting him some accessories. Options include a camera adapted for astrophotography, like the Canon EOS Rebel T7i, which is a popular choice among beginners, or a dedicated astrophotography camera like the ZWO ASI224MC.

3. Star Maps and Guides: Help expand his knowledge of the night sky with detailed star maps and guides. Consider books like "The Backyard Astronomer's Guide" by Terence Dickinson and Alan Dyer, or "NightWatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe" by Terence Dickinson.

4. Subscription to Astronomy Magazines: Foster his interest by getting him a subscription to a renowned astronomy magazine. Publications like Sky & Telescope or Astronomy Magazine offer a wealth of articles, tips, and stunning astrophotography to inspire and educate.

5. Smartphone Apps: There are numerous astronomy apps available that can serve as handy tools for identifying stars, planets, and constellations. Consider gifting him apps like SkySafari, Night Sky, or Stellarium for his smartphone or tablet.

6. Astrophotography Workshop: Enroll him in an astrophotography workshop or a local astronomy club where he can meet like-minded enthusiasts and learn from experienced photographers. This will provide him with valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

7. Star Naming Certificate: Make his birthday unforgettable by giving him a star naming certificate. Many services offer the chance to name a star after him. While it doesn't have any scientific significance, it's a sentimental and symbolic gift that can be cherished for years to come.

8. Light Pollution Filter: If light pollution is a problem in his area, a light pollution filter would be a thoughtful gift. It can help improve visibility and image quality during astrophotography sessions by reducing artificial light interference.

9. Personalized Photo Book: Gather his best astrophotography shots and create a personalized photo book. Websites like Shutterfly or Mixbook offer user-friendly templates to design a unique and meaningful keepsake.

10. Stargazing Camping Trip: Plan a stargazing camping trip to a destination with minimal light pollution. Spend quality time together under a clear night sky, sharing stories and observing celestial wonders. This experience will create lasting memories and deepen his love for astronomy.

Remember, the most important aspect of any gift is the thought and effort put into selecting something that aligns with your grandson's interests and passions. By choosing a gift that nurtures his love for astronomy and astrophotography, you are not only supporting his hobbies but also encouraging his continued growth and exploration in these fields.

Or you can get him a star map with the date when he was born.

Luann Skinner says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“I ordered the star map 8 days before my daughter's birthday. It arrived in 7 days just in time for her birthday. Thank you! She loved the star map.”