This is a modern recreation of the ancient Astrolabe, an instrument used for calendar based astronomical observations. You can find the rise and set times of the Sun and stars, find out when they will be in certain positions, find out the offset of the Sun due to the Equation of Time, and measure other things such as distances and heights. NB: Times given by this instrument are shown in Solar Time which is not the same as on your watch! (See the instructions for a fuller explanation of this)
You'll need to choose which Latitudes you need, preferably to the nearest 5º. If this a gift, please use the recipient's location. You can find that here: https://www.latlong.net
*** Please enter your latitude choice in the 'notes' box at checkout. ***
Latitude plates come two to a disc; I engrave both front and back of each disc. The thickness and price of the instrument varies by how many discs you choose to have. They live inside the body of the instrument and can be swapped out when you travel to a different location. The picture above shows a 4 plate/2 disc version.
Plates purchased after December 1st 2021 are now marked with North-based azimuth markings. If you would prefer the traditional Meridian-based markings, please tell me when you place the order. I can make either.
It is laser cut from White Birch and acrylic, bolted together with brass hardware and fitted with a leather hanging loop. The acrylic has a slight green color which will shine bright when it is edge-lit, but it is not glow in the dark.
The Acrylic Rete has all the brighter stars and constellations drawn on it. It's easy to see through it to the grid lines underneath.
The Wooden Rete is the traditional kind; it has pointers for the very brightest stars and it's a little harder to read the grid lines as they are only showing through the holes in the Rete. This version also comes with one extra layer of wood to surround the Rete, for protection.
It's your choice, but for ease of use, go with Acrylic.
If you want both, then please order wood here, and then add an Acrylic Rete from the Spares listing.
Please also see my Spares listing if you need the Long Ruler; I will combine shipping.
Although older children should find this educational, it is not a toy - there are sharp points on the back for the sighting marks.
Full instructions for use can be found here: http://wavytail.com/astrolabe-instructions/
