Guest Author - Barbara Melville

There are a great many astronomy-themed gifts out there. Beware though – some are cheaply made (and not so cheaply priced). It’s also important to think carefully about whether the present is really suitable. Astronomy enthusiasts may already have the gift you had in mind, or it might not be suited to their level. It’s sometimes worth forgoing surprise and asking for ideas.

Astronomy equipment is among the more expensive gifts available. In this case, I’d definitely ask the person if this is what they want and if so, what specifications they’re after. Not everyone has the room, time or even the interest for a telescope. Some may appreciate a pair of binoculars instead, or an entirely different gift altogether.

There are a loads of fantastic books out there, but for now I’ll name a few. For beginners, I recommend Astronomy For Dummies by Stephen Maran – this is an excellent, light-hearted reference book presented in easy-to-read language. If you’re looking for stunning astronomy pictures, Giles Sparrow’s The Planets will almost certainly suffice. For beginners and enthusiasts alike, Death from the Skies by Phil Plait is a well-researched and witty book about the threats space poses on us Earthlings.

Subscriptions can also make for excellent gifts. The two main magazines are Astronomy and Sky & Telescope. If you know someone is already subscribed to one astronomy magazine, they might feel this is enough for them. Computer software is also an option. Starry Night, for example, refers to several software packages aimed at both enthusiasts and professionals.

There are an abundance of posters, maps and prints with astronomy themes. Is there a particular picture you like? Several websites, such as CafePress and Zazzle, let you create and sell your own themed gifts. These include but aren’t limited to clothing, mugs, mousepads, bags and badges. Of course, you don’t have to design a gift if you don’t want to – sites like these are well-equipped with gifts others have come up with.

There are many quirky astronomy-themed gifts, such as space sand, sculptures, globes, paperweights and orreries. Some of these gifts are designed for nothing more than looking pretty, whereas some have other uses. Some are cute and functional. For example, many Moon and planet globes light up to serve as lamps.

Astronomy interests men and women of all ages, and the available gifts reflect this. There is a big overlap between gifts for adults and gifts for children. Some of the seemingly more childlike gifts, like soft toys, will appeal to adults too. Edmund Scientific is an example of a site with a range interesting and quirky gifts for both adults and children. For some gift ideas for children, read Astronomy Gifts for Kids.