Oriental Astrolabe 12 cm

The Astrolabe is the most sophisticated and beautiful astronomical instrument. It is basically a representation of the celestial sphere, in which the most important stars are represented Used to measure time, azimuths and declinations of stars...

In Europe the Astrolabe became an essential instrument for astronomers, astrologers and surveyors until the end of the 17th century when it was replaced by more accurate instruments. In the Arab world its use lasted until the 19th century.

The first planispheric astrolabe is attributed to Hipparchus (150 BC), of the School of Alexandria, based on stereographic projection. The knowledge and use of the Astrolabe spread throughout the Islamic world centuries before it reached Europe. The Astrolabe was known in Latin Europe from the end of the 10th century.

The Astrolabe we present here is an updated replica of the one created by the famous maker "Diya'al l Din Muhammad" in the year 1647 and made in the city of Lahore. This piece belongs to the collection of the Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum in Chicago. Calculated for 22º latitude (the Mecca).

Brass Astrolabe, engraved on both faces
Diameter: 12.2 cm
Includes a wooden stand
Includes a booklet (in English) with history and uses
Designed and produced in Madrid, Spain