Explore Neptune, the eighth and most distant planet in our solar system, with this highly-detailed 6" desktop globe from Astronomy magazine. It was created by the staff of Astronomy magazine using a 3D model of the ice giant planet from NASA's Visualization Technology Applications and Development.

Voyager 2 is the only spacecraft to ever visit distant Neptune.  It made its closest approach to the planet in August 1989, imaging the atmosphere and passing some 3,000 miles from its north polar regions.  

The model used for this map incorporates nine sets of images taken in three different color filters by Voyager 2 during its flyby in 1989.  Because Voyager 2 primarily viewed Neptune's southern pole, the full planetary map includes data cloned from southern latitudes and mixed in above latitudes of about 50° north for parts of the planet.

Despite its distance from our prying eyes, Neptune is a dynamic, fast-changing world whose appearance morphs with its seasons and the solar cycle.  Our globe shows the planet at only one point, to illustrate the types of colors and features that may be visible at any given time.

Whether you're a casual astronomer or observer, or a science educator, you won't want to be without this incredible new depiction of Neptune.

This highly detailed, injection-molded 6" desktop globe is made of long-lasting durable plastic with just a single seam between hemispheres and comes with a clear acrylic display base and informational flyer.