Gifts for kids who can’t imagine their lives without space can be a real discovery not just for the little ones, but for their parents too. This year, we’ve gathered ten of the most interesting and affordable options that can turn any child’s room into a true interstellar research center. Each of these gifts costs less than $100, but can spark a child’s curiosity and inspire them to explore science.
The selection includes modern telescopes, colorful star projectors, space-themed Lego sets, and books that explain the Universe in simple terms. These items will not only brighten up any room, but also provide great opportunities for family time, discussions, and experiments. If you’re looking for a gift that will do more than just delight — something that’ll truly captivate a child — this list is exactly what you need.
Star projectors
Galactic projectors are among the most popular options for decorating a young astronomer’s room. The Hommkiety Galaxy Projector ($39.99) stands out for its image quality and ease of use. It comes with 10 interchangeable discs, allowing you to switch up the starry sky display. This projector not only sets the mood but also helps kids learn more about constellations without ever leaving home.
Another great choice is the Orzorz Galaxy Light Home Planetarium ($50.99). This projector offers a wide selection of additional discs, runs on both batteries and mains power, and its simple controls make it perfect for children. The timer function lets you fall asleep under a sparkling night sky, which is especially appealing to younger schoolchildren.
Lego sets
Lego space sets are a fantastic way to combine play with learning. The new Lego Technic NASA Artemis Space Launch System ($59.99) lets you build a model rocket and learn about the stages of a real launch. The set includes four mini astronauts and an information panel, making it both a toy and a cool decor piece.
If you love transformations, the Lego Creator 3-in-1 Space Astronaut ($43.99) is a great pick. You can build an astronaut, a spaceship, or even an astronaut dog out of its pieces. Each model comes with a stand for display. The Lego Technic Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit set ($64.99) offers a hands-on way to explore the movement of Earth and the Moon around the Sun, as well as learn about the phases of the Moon.
Telescopes and Binoculars
For those who dream of stargazing in real life, compact telescopes and binoculars are a perfect choice. The Celestron Firstscope Signature Series Moon ($69.95) is a lightweight, user-friendly telescope designed especially for budding astronomers. Its body features an image of the Moon, and its simple setup makes it accessible even for the youngest explorers.
Another option is the Celestron Travel Scope 70 ($89). This telescope is easy to take outdoors or on the road, and thanks to its 70mm aperture and coated optics, it delivers clear and bright images. For stargazing, the Celestron UpClose G2 10-30×50 binoculars ($49.97) are also a good choice. They are lightweight, durable, waterproof, and come with a carrying case.
Books about space
Books are an integral part of sparking an interest in science. The “Max Goes To…” series by Jeffrey Bennett ($9.99 per book) tells the adventures of Max the dog and his friend Tori on Jupiter, the Moon, the ISS, and Mars. The illustrations and captivating stories make these books favorites among children of all ages. In fact, the fourth book in the series was read on board the International Space Station (ISS).
For teenagers, the “Coalwood” series by Homer Hickam ($12.14) is a good option. These autobiographical stories follow young enthusiasts inspired by the launch of Sputnik-1, who begin building their own rockets. The author went on to become an engineer at NASA and helped train Japan’s first astronauts. These books are not just about space, but also about dreams that come true.
If you didn’t know, Celestron is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of optical equipment for astronomy and nature observation. Founded in the United States in the 1960s, the company is renowned for its affordable and reliable telescopes for both beginners and professionals. Celestron’s products consistently receive high ratings from experts and users worldwide, and many models are specifically designed for children and teenagers to make astronomy more accessible and understandable.
