Create your own DIY planetarium using just a few simple supplies! With this easy star projector activity, kids can explore constellations in the Milky Way galaxy. This hands-on astronomy project is perfect for classrooms, homeschool, or a fun family night under the stars.
DIY Planetarium or Star Projector
By creating a mini planetarium, kids model how light travels and how images project—similar to how real planetariums display the stars. This project encourages observation skills, pattern recognition, and curiosity about space science.
- Field of Science: Astronomy, Earth & Space Science
- Grade Level: Grades 2–6
Concepts Explored:
- Constellations and star patterns
- Light projection and how images form
- Observation and modeling in astronomy
Supplies Needed
- Empty Pringles can (or similar tube)
- Printable constellation templates
- Black paper
- Scissors
- Nail or push pin
- Flashlight
- Tape or glue
- Decorative paper (optional)
How To Make a DIY Star Projector
🎥 Watch the Video!
- Print the constellation templates provided below.
- Cut out the circles on the printable sheet.
- Trace the plastic lid of your can onto black paper three times, then cut out the circles.
- Tape each constellation to a black circle and use a nail or push pin to poke holes through the “stars.”
- Wrap your can with decorative paper if desired.
- Place one constellation circle inside the plastic lid.
- Shine a flashlight into the open end of the can and aim it at the ceiling or wall in a dark room—watch the constellations come alive!
Constellation Science Information
A constellation is a recognizable pattern of stars in the night sky. Ancient civilizations created stories around these star groups, naming them after animals, heroes, and mythical beings. Today, constellations help astronomers identify and locate stars and galaxies.
💡 Try this easy to print and set up constellation activities too.
Orion the Hunter
Known for his bright “belt” of three stars, Orion is one of the easiest constellations to spot. In mythology, he was a mighty hunter chasing the Pleiades sisters.
Cassiopeia
This W-shaped constellation represents a queen from Greek mythology known for her vanity. It’s visible year-round in the Northern Hemisphere.
Andromeda
Named after Cassiopeia’s daughter, this constellation contains the Andromeda Galaxy, the closest spiral galaxy to our own Milky Way.
More Space Facts for Kids
- The Milky Way contains over 100 billion stars!
- Astronomers divide the sky into 88 constellations recognized by the International Astronomical Union.
- The North Star (Polaris) sits almost directly above Earth’s North Pole, helping travelers navigate for centuries.
NGSS Guiding Questions
| NGSS Question | Concept Focus |
|---|---|
| What patterns can we see in the night sky? | Stars form recognizable patterns called constellations. |
| How do models help us study space? | A homemade planetarium models how real planetariums project constellations. |
| How does light help us observe the universe? | Light allows us to see stars and galaxies even across vast distances. |
Free Printable DIY Planetarium
About Neil deGrasse Tyson
Famous scientist Neil deGrasse Tyson is an American astrophysicist, planetary scientist, and author. Since 1996, he’s been the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, where his passion for space began when he first visited at age 9.
He’s best known for helping redefine what makes a planet—playing a role in Pluto’s reclassification as a dwarf planet to keep our solar system scientifically accurate. Tyson continues to inspire young astronomers to ask questions about the universe.
You may not be able to visit the Hayden Planetarium, but with this DIY project, you can explore the night sky at home and learn about constellations just like real astronomers!
🎨 Also try Neil’s Watercolor Galaxy STEAM project here.
Extension Astronomy Activities
🔎 Check out our complete Astronomy for Kids collection here.
- Make an Oreo Moon Phases model to explore how the moon changes.
- Try a Solar System Lapbook to learn about planets and orbits.
- Build a DIY Pinhole Viewer to safely watch an eclipse.
- Create a Spectroscope to see how astronomers study starlight.
- Add a Moon Phases Fold-Out Book for more astronomy fun.
- Build a simple telescope to study the night sky like Galileo.
Printable Science Packs for Kids
Visit our SHOP for easy-to-print STEM and science lesson plans for the whole year. Or join us in the Little Bins Club.
