MEGASTAR-Neo II is an opto-mechanical starball suitable for domes from 4 to 10 m in diameter. It has been developed as an ‘affordable solution’ that is low-cost to install, simple to maintain and long-lasting.
Although intended for smaller domes, it is equipped with electronically controlled Solid-State Shutters and can be used in both horizontal and tilted domes. It can also mask any parts of the starry sky and apply a gradient to stars near the horizon, making it possible to reproduce a scene closer to the actual starry sky.
The newly developed highly efficient projection optics and the use of the latest ultra-bright white LEDs have resulted in an ultra-compact body. With a sphere diameter of only 280 mm and a total weight 25 kg, it is even smaller and lighter than the MEGASTAR-Neo. It can be easily lifted by an adult and transported by ordinary courier services, a feature unprecedented in conventional permanent planetariums. This facilitates on-site maintenance and also allows the main unit to be shipped by courier in emergencies.
Due to its extremely small size, it does not obstruct the view of spectators.
Dome models with a diameter of less than 8 m are fanless types*, so you can enjoy the starry sky in a very quiet environment without having to worry about the noise of the cooling fan. Maintenance is also easier.
*For brighter stars, an optional fan type can be selected.
Despite its small size, MEGASTAR reproduces the Milky Way with depth and realism by projecting even the smallest star grains, which cannot be distinguished by the naked eye, as individual stars.
12-segment projection optics. The main light source is the latest ultra-bright white LEDs, which are designed to be maintenance-free and require no lamp replacement over the long term.
Ultra compact
The diameter of spherical unit is only 280 mm, the weight is 25 kg. One person can handle its lightweight body, and it can travel by an ordinary courier service. Besides easy maintenance at the site, a rapid delivery is available in case of emergency.
Solid-State Shutter for flat / tilted domes
Electronically controlled Solid-State Shutters can mask and on any parts of the starry sky and apply a gradient to stars near the horizon, making it possible to reproduce a scene closer to the actual starry sky.
As it has no moving parts, it is an improvement over conventional gravity shutters in terms of breakdowns and maintenance.
Depth of the starry sky
The projected number of stars is 1 million in default configuration. A plenty of stars appears as separate fine particles, even those which can not be distinguished with the naked eye, and the depth of the starry sky is reproduced extremely real. While having a tiny body, it is capable to generate a sharp starry sky justifying the name of MEGASTAR.
Bright star projectors
Standard configuration has 16 bright star projectors mounted. Twinkle function is available. Each bright star is reproduced with its color and magnitude. Bright stars can be controlled independently allowing smooth fade, on/off, and variable stars simulation.
Camera and laser
Laser is mounted in the central belt part of the main body. It makes possible easy calibration of the star projector and precise position alignment with a digital planetarium.
Communication with a digital planetarium
It is developed to be used together with a digital planetarium. A combination of optical and digital systems allows to correspond to a wide range of utilization.