Star chart

A map of the sky that shows stars and often other celestial objects, allowing them to be identified or located by position.

Celestial sphere: An imaginary sphere surrounding Earth onto which celestial objects are projected by their apparent directions. Star charts represent positions on this imagined surface.
Celestial cartography: The practice of representing celestial positions and features on maps. Star charts are one form of mapping the sky.
Amateur astronomy: The nonprofessional study and observation of celestial objects. Observers use charts to recognize stars and plan sessions.
Celestial globe: A spherical model displaying stars and other celestial features on its surface. Unlike a flat chart, it avoids flattening the celestial sphere.
Celestial coordinates: A system of coordinates used to specify positions on the celestial sphere. Coordinates let charts mark and communicate precise sky positions.
Map projection: A method for representing a curved surface on a flat map. Projecting the celestial sphere onto a page inevitably distorts some properties.
Star hopping: A method of locating a faint celestial object by moving between recognizable stars. Charts provide the landmarks and route for this telescope-finding technique.
Digital planetarium: Software that renders a simulated sky for selected locations, dates, and times. It updates the displayed sky dynamically rather than fixing positions on a printed page.
Constellation: A recognized region or pattern of stars in the sky. Constellation boundaries and patterns provide familiar reference points on many charts.
Planisphere: A rotating star map that shows which stars are visible at a chosen date and time. Its adjustable window accounts for changing visibility through the night and year.

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