The DS-FX Home Planetarium and the Sega Toys Homestar Flux are two popular choices for home planetariums, offering users the opportunity to bring the beauty of the night sky into their own homes.
These devices are not only perfect for astronomy enthusiasts who want to explore the wonders of the universe, but also for home decor enthusiasts looking to add a unique and mesmerizing touch to their living spaces.
In this post, we will compare the DS-FX Home Planetarium and the Sega Toys Homestar Flux in terms of their key features and functionalities, helping readers make an informed decision when choosing between these two options.
The DS-FX Home Planetarium is a recent addition to the Dark Sky home planetarium lineup. With its advanced technology, it projects an impressive 3.1 million stars onto any surface, creating a breathtaking celestial experience.
The star mapping accuracy of the DS-FX is another standout feature, ensuring that users can explore constellations and planets with precision. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just starting your stargazing journey, this home planetarium offers a level of detail that will leave you in awe.
On the other hand, we have the Sega Toys Homestar Flux, which boasts being one of the most popular home planetariums currently available on the market.
With over 60,000 high-definition stars projected onto walls or ceilings, this device creates a truly immersive stargazing experience. The ultra-bright 5-watt white LED combined with glass optical lenses ensures that every star shines brilliantly in your room. The Homestar Flux is designed to transport you into space from the comfort of your own home.
Both home planetariums offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize a higher number of stars projected or utmost accuracy in star mapping, there’s an option for everyone.
Short on time? Here’s my quick guide table to help you make up your mind.

- 4 optional discs
- 3.1 million stars projected
- No shooting star
- Silent operation
- In built battery

- 20+ optional discs
- 60k stars projected
- Shooting star
- Makes some noise
- Requires power outlet
Let’s delve deeper into each criterion – number of stars projected, star mapping accuracy, brightness, and available discs – to help you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements. Let’s explore the differences between these two remarkable home planetariums and find out which one is perfect for your stargazing needs.
Number of Stars Projected
The number of stars projected is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a home planetarium. In this comparison, the DS-FX Home Planetarium takes the lead with its impressive projection of 3.1 million stars. This means that users can experience a truly immersive and realistic stargazing experience right in the comfort of their own homes.
On the other hand, the Sega Toys Homestar Flux offers a still impressive projection of over 60,000 high-definition stars. While this may seem like a significant difference compared to the DS-FX, it’s important to note that both options provide an enchanting view of the night sky.
Do Numbers Matter?
While having more stars projected can enhance the overall experience, it’s important to remember that even a smaller number like 60,000 can still provide a breathtaking view of the night sky.

Accuracy in star mapping plays a vital role in creating an authentic stargazing experience. Both the DS-FX Home Planetarium and Sega Toys Homestar Flux excel in this aspect, ensuring that each star is accurately positioned for an immersive view of the night sky.
The Verdict
In terms of sheer quantity, the DS-FX Home Planetarium outshines its competition with its impressive projection of 3.1 million stars. However, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and budget when making a decision.
Many will prefer the lower number as it gives a more accurate representation of the night sky if you’re in an area with light pollution.
Ultimately, whether you choose the DS-FX or Homestar Flux, both home planetariums will transport you to distant galaxies and leave you awe-inspired by the beauty of our universe. So sit back, relax, and let the stars guide you on an unforgettable celestial journey.
Star Mapping Accuracy
Star mapping accuracy is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a home planetarium. Accurate star mapping ensures that the projected stars align with their actual positions in the night sky, creating a more realistic and immersive stargazing experience. Both the DS-FX Home Planetarium and the Sega Toys Homestar Flux excel in this aspect, but there are some differences worth noting.
The DS-FX Home Planetarium boasts impressive star mapping accuracy, thanks to its advanced technology and precise algorithms. With 3.1 million stars projected, it offers a comprehensive view of the night sky that is more akin to a true dark sky experience in the desert than in a light polluted city.
The DS-FX utilizes data from reputable astronomical sources to ensure that each star’s position is accurately represented. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just starting your stargazing journey, the DS-FX’s accurate star mapping will provide an authentic celestial experience.
On the other hand, the Sega Toys Homestar Flux also delivers exceptional star mapping accuracy. It features over 60,000 high-definition stars that are meticulously mapped using cutting-edge technology. So both provide accurate representations of the night sky, there is just more night sky with the FX.
Brightness
Projection brightness is something of a hot topic in my video comments. Some want a bright projection, others prefer a softer, more subtle, set of stars.
The DS-FX has a high-quality LED light, but it’s not as powerful as the Flux’s ultra-bright 5-watt white LED. If you watch my comparison video you’ll see the Flux projection overpowers the FX.
Both do a great job in dark rooms, but both are also easily overpowered by other light sources, such as a TV being on.
Expert Recommendation
Both offer exceptional brightness levels in the dark, which you’ll prefer comes down to personal preference. I now prefer the DS-FX because it projects more stars and offers a more captivating and realistic stargazing experience.
Available Discs
Having a variety of available discs can greatly enhance the stargazing experience. Both the DS-FX Home Planetarium and the Sega Toys Homestar Flux offer extra discs to expand the range of projected images. From stunning views of distant galaxies to detailed depictions of constellations, these discs allow users to customize their stargazing sessions based on their personal preferences.
At the time of writing, the DS-FX has a small selection of discs, each offering unique celestial scenes and landscapes. A unique disc option that I haven’t seen others do is to create twinkling stars. This involves creating a slight temporary dip in brightness for some of the projected stars.
On the other hand, the Sega Toys Homestar Flux has been on the market for some time and has 20+ discs that provide users with a diverse range of celestial imagery. With a wide range of options, these discs offer a captivating visual experience.
Comparison
While both home planetariums offer additional discs for expanding the range of projected images, the Flux has a wider selection compared to the FX. With its extensive collection of discs, users have more flexibility in creating their own unique stargazing experiences.
Recommendation
After carefully comparing the DS-FX Home Planetarium and the Sega Toys Homestar Flux, for me the DS-FX is the superior choice for those looking to bring the wonders of the universe into their homes.
With its impressive 3.1 million stars projected, plus it’s silent running, the DS-FX offers a truly immersive stargazing experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the night sky, this home planetarium will not disappoint.
Of course, if you want something that offers a wide range of available discs, then the Flux is your best option. With a wide range of discs featuring different celestial objects and landscapes, users can customize their stargazing sessions according to their interests and preferences.