Planetaria are used to demonstrate the motion of the planets. This example is highly decorative so likely intended for a well-to-do individual’s home library.The instrument is dated to c. 1900 by the assumption that the planets and moons present had been discovered, while the style and nickel plating are consistent with late nineteenth century manufacture. Neptune was not discovered until 1846, so the presence of an eighth planetary drive sleeve indicates a manufacture after 1846; Mars appeared to have two original moons (not discovered until 1877, and Saturn's ninth moon was not discovered until 1899. 

Restoration

At time of purchase the orrery was severely tarnished, and the paint was flaking off the various remaining wooden planets. The Sun, all of the moons, three of the four Galilean moon arms, the drive strings, and the outer two planets (Neptune and Uranus) and their collars/arms were missing. 

Tarnish was removed with brass-polish and the clean metal waxed. The original planets were sprayed with clear plastic to stabilize the remaining paint.

The three missing Galilean moon arms were replaced with 1/16th inch brass rod bent to match the remaining original arm and soldered in place. New collars for Neptune and Uranus were turned from brass round stock. The center holes were turned with a 2° taper to match the sleeves on the Orrery, the other dimensions (height, thickness etc.) replicated those of the Saturn collar. A 5/32" hole was then drilled to fit the 5/32" brass rod arms. The arms were then pined in place with 1/16" brass rod to match the original construction Small brass collars were turned on the lathe to place on the ends to support the 1/8" upright brass planet rods, matching the other large planets. 

The Sun, Uranus and Neptune replaced with wood spheres. The moons were replaced with pearls and polished stone beads.

Painting

© R. Paselk 2013, Last modified 28 December 2020