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Abigail S.
Introduction
The astrolabe was important for all aspects of the Italian Renaissance. The Italian Renaissance was known for its intellectual rebirths and scientific advancements in fields such as architecture, astronomy, and exploration. The astrolabe is a mathematical instrument used for noting coordinates, measuring height and depth, calculating, and finding celestial bodies. Because of its versatile nature the astrolabe aided many intellectuals of the time period.
Origins of the Astrolabe
The astrolabe was first created by the ancient Greeks and improved upon in Islam. Parts were borrowed from the Babylonians such as dividing a circle into 360 degrees. In the 12th century it traveled into Europe from Islamic Spain where it would be translated into many languages. It rose in popularity during the Italian Renaissance thanks to its multifaceted abilities.
Description of an Astrolabe & It's Effects on Architecture
The astrolabe was composed of many parts including a base plate with coordinates, a disk with a star map, and an alidade used for observing astronomical objects. Surveyors would use the alidade to measure potential building sites. The entire instrument was also used as an analog calculator. Architecture in the Italian Renaissance was heavily focused on symmetry, scale, and proportion. An analog calculator such as the astrolabe was helpful for cultivating the Italian Renaissance's architectural aesthetics.
(Image A2) An image of Italian Renaissance architecture
Astronomy and the astrolabe
Astronomy was also a big use of the astrolabe. It was used to find the angle of celestial bodies. Because of its use in astronomy, the astrolabe laid the foundations for astronomic research during the Italian renaissance.
The Astrolabe's effect on sailors
The astrolabe’s ability to track celestial objects was also vital for sailors at the time. Starting in the 15th century, sailors would use it to follow coordinates and know what direction to go. Previously unknown lands were discovered and traveled to during the Italian Renaissance. It also helped with the establishment of trade routes during the time. The advancements in architecture, travel, and astronomy made because of the astrolabe paved the way for the technologies our modern world is built upon to this day.
(Image A5) A drawing of a sailor using an astrolabe to aid him with his travels.
Other Resources
THE ASTROLABE is an advanced resource for learning about the different parts of the astrolabe. The resource contains a diagram and descriptions of the astrolabe for further research.
This Britannica article is a good resource for those who would like to read about the engravings on the astrolabe.
This article goes into more depth on the origins and history of the astrolabe. While it doesn't cover the astrolabe's significance to Italy, its background information on the invention and "How to Use an Astrolabe" section are great for those who want more details on those specific topics.
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