A working model of the planetary system with a 'Star dome' making it a versatile aid for teaching basic astronomy. The planetarium comprises a circular base on which the model planets revolve around the Sun at their correct relative speeds. The upper edge of the base has a calendar and a degree scale for setting the planetary positions. The star dome is of the northern hemisphere.Supplied with teaching manual covering history the Sun planets comets and space exploration as well as useful tips for demonstration.Complete with all accessories and a 240V mains power unit fitted with double insulation and thermal cut-out for overload protection It is supplied with a star dome for the northern hemisphere.This orrery is suitable from Key Stage 2 to University levels of education.The model enables the study of the following topics:The Planets in their orbits (length of a year inferior and superior planets)The phases of VenusThe Moon and its phases (external light source required)Eclipse basicsTime - solar sidereal and G.M.T.The ecliptic and the Zodiacal constellationsHow the planets appear to move against the night skyUse of the Helios outside at night - where should the stars appear in the sky?With the large Earth and Moon accessories that are included you can also watch as the Earth rotates on its axis while the Moon orbits it every 29.5 'days'. Using an external light source (torch projector) the larger size of Earth and Moon enables you to demonstrate the following events much more clearly:Day and nightShadows and the seasonsThe Moon's month phases and eclipsesThe Pole Star circumpolar stars and a nocturnalThe Moon and stars from different positions on EarthThe tidesSpace travel