The Outer Space Movaglobes are detailed self-powered rotating globes of planets, moons, the Sun and the constellations. All have vibrant artwork and the planets all use detailed high-resolution images from NASA. The globes are available in a standard 4.5-inch, detailed 6-inch, and the larger 8.5-inch version although retailers seem to be favouring the smaller sizes. As well as being available individually, there are a couple of bundles available: the Sun/Earth/Moon set and the group of all eight Solar System planets.

Each globe has a transparent outer shell and a three-pronged stand made from high-quality clear acrylic. The external shell and the stand remain stationary while the internal decorative globe rotates slowly and quietly. Each globe rotates without the use of electricity so they operate without batteries, cords or need to charge. Hidden solar cells use ambient natural or artificial light for power, while the earth’s magnetic field provides the necessary torque.

I have seen the Earth and Mars globes first-hand at Selfridges in London and they were both very pretty and pricey objects of desire. I should imagine that Jupiter in the large 8.5-inch format would be particularly impressive and expensive. The Pluto globe is up-to-date with New Horizons' detailed imagery and Uranus is thankfully banded and blooming with dozens of clouds like the Keck pictures rather than the featureless, hazy blue ball seen by Voyager 2. Movaglobes need to do something about their Saturn globe, however, which does not have any rings!