The “Star Navigator” 

This and related models like Night Navigator and Space Navigator) by Excalibur Electronics is a handheld electronic astronomy tool from the late 1990s/early 2000s. 

It helps users locate, identify, and learn about stars, constellations, planets, and other celestial objects without needing a telescope or advanced knowledge.  The version I have is Model 763; one of the early models with less flashy features and no voice options and a weaker lighting.  The images are of my own device which still works!

Key Features and How It Works

•  Handheld design: It resembles a diamond-shaped plastic device with a built-in magnetic compass, LCD screen, speaker, controls (arrow/select buttons), and a rotating outer dial that functions like a planisphere.

•  Voice guidance: A natural-sounding human voice walks you through setup and use, providing spoken directions, object info, and tips. You can adjust volume or mute it.

•  Charts and overlays: It comes with 16–20 color-coded, labeled chart overlays (stored in a slot on the back). You insert the appropriate chart based on prompts, and illuminated arrows/LEDs guide alignment. Charts show constellation outlines, star names, and shapes (often in red), with legends or additional info in green.

•  Setup: Enter your latitude/longitude (a booklet provides this), date, and time. Align using the compass (magnetic north) or Polaris. It retains settings with backup batteries.

•  Functions:

•  Find mode: Search visible or all objects by category (constellations, stars, deep-sky objects, planets). It tells you which chart to load, how to rotate/aim the device, direction to look, altitude (low/mid/high in the sky), and landmarks (e.g., “find the Big Dipper first”).

•  Identify mode: Point it at what you see to get names and details.

•  Tonight/Tonight’s events: Lists visible planets, meteor showers, etc.

•  Info button: Provides facts like distance, type (e.g., “Whirlpool Galaxy, spiral, ~35 million light years away”).

•  Lighting: Flip-up light bars with red, blue, or combined illumination for reading charts at night without ruining dark adaptation. 

Models vary slightly:

•  Night Navigator (e.g., 761): Basic star/planet/constellation finder.

•  Star Navigator (e.g., 763): Northern Hemisphere edition with manual compass emphasis.

•  Space Navigator (e.g., 765 or Einstein Deluxe): More advanced with voice, extra charts, and broader object database (including distant galaxies). 

It runs on 3 AAA batteries (plus included watch batteries for memory backup) and includes booklets like “Navigating the Universe” for background info.

Purpose and Reception

Excalibur marketed it as an educational gadget for backyard astronomers, kids (ages 8+), and beginners. It bridges simple star charts and more advanced tools by combining electronics, voice prompts, and physical charts. Reviews praised its ease of use, helpful voice, and practical guidance for real-sky navigation, though its utility has decreased with smartphone apps. It was sold at retailers like RadioShack and priced around £60 new. 

Today, these are vintage/collectible items often found on eBay in used or new-old-stock condition. They still work well for hands-on learning, though accuracy depends on proper setup and location.

It’s a very dated gadget but one that is a fascinating thing and a bit of fun for budding astronomers. It’s just a shame that the 263 ( and others?) can only be set to dates up to 2012. I’d love to hear from owners of later models as to whether they have a longer date span. As with anything battery powered it is of course buyer beware as these gadgets may have been damaged by corrosion and leaking batteries.