Rojas Universal Astrolabe Replica

Rojas Universal Astrolabe Replica

JEWELLED FALCON REPLICA

JEWELLED FALCON REPLICA

 Nautical Astrolabe - H23

Nautical Astrolabe - H23

Rojas Universal Astrolabe Replica

QR 1,700.00
Rojas Universal Astrolabe Replica
Handcrafted in brass, this is a beautifully made working reproduction replica of the original Rojas astrolabe, named after the Spanish astronomer and mathematician Juan de Rojas who presented the Orthographic Projection in 1550. This projection was successfully applied in a new type of astrolabe that offered remarkable advantages over its predecessors because it could be used in any latitude. The astrolabe reached the peak of its popularity in the 16th century. The Museum of Islamic Art has many similar original astrolabes in its exhibits. Measuring the height of a star using the back of the instrument, and knowing the latitude, you could find the time of night and the position of other stars. The openwork piece on the front, called the rete, is a star map of the northern sky. Pointers on the rete correspond to stars; the outermost circle is the Tropic of Capricorn, and the circle that is off-center represents the zodiac, the apparent annual motion of the sun. Engraved plates that fit below the rete have scales of altitude and azimuth (arc of the horizon) for specific latitudes. This beautiful instrument comes complete with wooden base and booklets on use and historical context. Made in Spain.