The Astrolabe Project (original) (raw)

Abstract

Marine astrolabes were a simplification of the existing Islamic calculating devices and were used during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries to measure the height of the sun at noon on sailing ships. With this value and the proper tables, sea captains could calculate the latitude and estimate the position of their ships during the long oceanic voyages that characterized the first age of globalization. This paper presents an inventory of all marine astrolabes known to exist, and proposes a taxonomy and chronology of their styles, based on the available data.

Key takeaways

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  1. Marine astrolabes simplified latitude measurement, essential for navigation during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
  2. An inventory of 101 astrolabes informed a new taxonomy and chronology of their styles and features.
  3. Astrolabes reflect the cultural, economic, and technological context of their makers and users.
  4. The research reveals challenges in accessing comprehensive data due to private ownership and market secrecy.
  5. Future studies aim to enhance understanding of astrolabe makers, technology diffusion, and instrument usage.

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References (10)

  1. Albuquerque L (1994) Estudos de Histo ´ria da Cie ˆncia Na ´utica. Instituto de Investigac ¸a ˜o Cientı ´fica Tropical, Lisbon da Costa A Fontoura (1933) A marinharia dos descobrimentos. Imprensa da Armada, Lisbon
  2. Da Silva, LP (1945a) O Astrola ´bio Na ´utico dos Portugueses. In: Obras completas, Vol II. Lisbon: Age ˆncia Geral das Colo ´nias, pp 49-62
  3. Da Silva LP (1945b) Astrola ´bios Existentes em Portugal. In: Obras completas, Vol II. Lisbon: Age ˆncia Geral das Colo ´nias, pp 63-72
  4. Da Silva LP (1946a) Um astrola ´bio do se ´culo XVII. In: Obras completas, Vol III, Lisbon: Age ˆncia Geral das Colo ´nias, pp 301-311
  5. Da Silva LP (1946b) Um astrola ´bio na ´utico do se ´culo XVI. In: Obras completas, Vol III, Lisbon: Age ˆncia Geral das Colo ´nias, pp 326-330
  6. Da Silva LP (1946c) O astrola ´bio universal da Sociedade de geografia de Lisboa. In: Obras completas, Vol III, Lisbon: Age ˆncia Geral das Colo ´nias, pp 331-352
  7. de Barros J (1978) Da Asia Decada I. Regia Officina Typografica, Lisboa Destombes Marcel (1969a) Un astrolabe nautique de la casa de Contratacion (Seville, 1563). Revue d' Histoire des Sciences et de leurs Applications 22:33-64
  8. Destombes M (1969b) Deux astrolabes nautiques ine ´dits de J. et A. de Goes, Lisbonne, 1608-1648. Coimbra, Junta de Investigac ¸o ˜es do Ultramar, Lisbon do Vale JP (1998) Astrola ´bios na ´uticos. In: Afonso SL (ed) Nossa Senhora dos Martires: a ultima viagem. Verbo, Lisbon, pp 96-105
  9. dos Reis AE (1997) Medir estrelas. Correios de Portugal, Lisbon dos Reis AE (2002) Astrola ´bios na ´uticos. Edic ¸o ˜es Inapa, Lisbon Garcia G (2005) The Rincon Astrolabe Shipwreck. College Station, TX: MA Thesis, Texas A&M University Marques AHO (1998) A expansao quatrocentista. Editorial Estampa, Lisbon Stimson A (1983) The Mariners astrolabe, a survey of 48 surviving examples. In: Proceedings of the IV Reunia ˜o da Histo ´ria da Na ´utica e da Hidrografia, Sagres, Portugal. Coimbra: Revista da Universidade de Coimbra Stimson A (1988) The Mariner's astrolabe. HES Publishers, Utrecht Waters DW (1957) A tenth Mariner's astrolabe. J Inst Navig 10:411-415
  10. Waters DW (1966) The sea or Mariner's astrolabe. Junta de Investigac ¸o ˜es do Ultramar, Coimbra

FAQs

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What explains the significance of astrolabes in maritime navigation history?add

The study reveals that astrolabes were crucial for determining latitude, aiding exploration and trade in the Atlantic Ocean. Their use helped shape the geopolitical landscape during the late Renaissance, particularly in imperialist maritime endeavors.

How did the typology of astrolabes evolve over time?add

The research identifies a progression from sparsely decorated Type I(a)1 astrolabes before 1585 to more intricate forms by the seventeenth century. Alan Stimson's work categorized astrolabes into six types, reflecting shifts in design and cultural influences.

What methodologies allow for dating and identifying shipwreck astrolabes?add

The paper discusses a taxonomy incorporating features such as scale markings and diameter measurements to establish astrolabe chronology. Analysis of assemblages from shipwrecks like the Oranjemund, dating back to 1533, continues to refine understanding.

When did scholarly interest in mariner's astrolabes begin?add

Interest surged in 1917 with articles describing astrolabes in Portugal, marking the start of systematic study. By the 1930s, collections in Europe had increased, prompted by ongoing discoveries and scholarly publications.

What challenges do researchers face in astrolabe inventory and study?add

The research highlights difficulties due to the scarcity of reliable provenance and data from treasure hunters. Many astrolabes remain unverified, complicating efforts to compile a comprehensive inventory and chronology.