When you want to find constellations, star charts can be a big help because they will show you the layout of the celestial bodies in the night sky.
I have a list of sites with free charts (or sky maps as they are sometimes called) that you can print. Some of these sites have pre-made printable charts. Others have interactive charts that enable you to select various options such as the date, time, labels, and lines. Once you have made your choices, you can then print the chart.
Keep in mind that you’ll probably want to have a red light to look at your printed sky map when you are outside. A regular light or flashlight will interfere with your night vision.
Printable Star Charts
What’s Out Tonight: This site has a current star chart on its home page that can click on, download, and print.
Midnight Kite: You’ll find a collection of charts for viewing the night sky anywhere on Earth on Midnight Kite.
Heavens Above: Heavens Above has an interactive sky chart that you can print.
Sky Maps: Get printable sky maps by date on this site.
Deep-Sky Watch: The printables on this site are perfect for deep sky observers.
Kids Astronomy: This site has an interactive sky map/planosphere that can be printed.
Did you find these free star charts helpful? If you did and you know others who could use them, invite them to join the Membership Area so that they can get access to this post too.
More help on this site with teaching astronomy:
- Where to Get Homeschool Astronomy Curriculum for Your High School Student
- YouTube Playlist About the Constellations for Kids
- YouTube Playlists About Outer Space for Kids
- Free Online Astronomy Resources
- Free Printable Constellation Cards
Many blessings,
