I just love astronomy. In fact, Contact is one of my favorite movies. It would probably take me a lifetime to learn the names of all the objects in the sky, but with Celestron's SkyScout Personal Planetarium ($399), it will explore the sky for you.

Sebastian Rupley of PC Magazine reports that the SkyScout instantly identifies over 6,000 objects, including planets, constellations, star clusters, and galaxies. All you do is aim the device toward the sky, hit the Target button, and you'll receive information on what you're looking at via text or audio.

The SkyScout weighs 15.2 ounces and features a GPS function, four-way navigation control, 3- by 1-inch LCD with red LED backlight, USB connection, and included earbuds. You'll also find a customized list of the 20 best objects to view for your exact date, time and location wherever you are in the world.

While the SkyScout won't be available until April 2006, you can preorder it now at many Celestron dealers, including B&H Photo, Amazon, Astronomics, and Hands On Optics.