star chart

Common formats include folded map packs, laminated wall charts, and hardcover star-atlas books.

Star charts cover both the Northern and Southern hemispheres and commonly include dedicated charts or guides for the Moon, the planets, and the broader Solar System.

Night-sky maps often include four seasonal charts—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—so the constellations displayed change with the seasons.

Map packs commonly include Solar System and Moon maps, seasonal night-sky charts for both hemispheres, images of the Moon and planets, and supporting tables (for example, star-magnitude tables) to aid identification.

Star charts are used to locate constellations and label brighter stars; they include images and brief guides that support backyard observing and classroom activities by helping users identify objects in the night sky.