The SEGA Homestar Flux Home Planetarium is just that, a compact-sized projector that will provide a stargazing experience in the comfort of your home - which turns out to be an incredible experience. Even though you’re only looking at what is basically an enlarged image (of over 60,000 stars compiled from NASA's own photography), the effect is truly mesmerising and majestic. Anyone who admires the beauty of space will be instantly enthralled by Flux. It's a perfect way of bringing a little sci-fi wonder into any home.
Taking over from Japanese inventor & entrepreneur Takayuki Ohira’s 2006 award-winning Sega Toys Homestar Original planetarium, the Flux is an improved and brilliantly designed model which is simple to operate. The Flux’s body is a matte sphere connected to metal stand which allows the unit to be angled around 360-degrees. The projected space images are provided on small, compact slides which are inserted via the disk tray. The LED light is activated by an on/off switch, and after a brief adjustment to the focus dial (the lined ring that circles the projection lens) everything is up and running. There are three additional and self-explanatory functions: shooting star, move (rotation) and timer. Power is provided by either mains plug or USB connection.
The design of the Flux is compact, allowing it to be unobtrusive when in use and simple to store and pack. The projector comes on a very satisfying package, which includes a decorative protective box – ideal for safe and easy storage.
"Anyone who admires the beauty of space will be instantly enthralled by the Flux. It's a perfect way of bringing a little sci-fi wonder into any home."
Five Features
60,000+ High Definition Stars
The Flux will project 60,000 stars onto any surface the user desires via the included northern hemisphere slide. There are also over 30 additional star discs that can be purchased, offering the chance to bring The Andromeda Galaxy, Jabbah, or Aurora Borealis into the home.
Large Projection Throw and Sharp Clarity
The Flux is able to project its image between 120cm to 290cm (47-inch to 114-inch), which is ideal for pretty much any space in the home. The clarity of the image is impressively sharp, especially for such an affordable device. Simply adjust the focus with the simple top dial to sharpen up the image, depending on the throw distance.
Rotation
The user has the choice between having a stationary projection or slow rotation. The slow rotate is certainly recommended, as it does add a certain something to the experience and atmosphere. The mechanism, while not ‘silent’ as advertised, is very quiet.
Shooting Star
If the user is looking to add even more sparkle and whimsy into their galaxy view, the Flux will periodically cast a small light, simulating a shooting star. It’s a fun feature, though the effect is more convincing when the image distance is towards the top end of the Flux’s range, and when combined with one of the optional extra disks, such as the Warped Andromeda.
Timer
The timer is a nice touch for anyone looking to fall asleep under the stars without having to sacrifice the comfort of their bed. The timer can be set to shut the device off after 15, 30 or 60 minutes.
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