Tom Wujec

An astrolabe is relatively unknown in today's world. But, at the time, in the 13th century, it was the gadget of the day. It was the world's first popular computer. And it was a device that, in fact, is a model of the sky.

Canadian Author

Understand astrolabes were key for ancient navigation and astronomy, much like GPS today.

Historical Importance

Recognize the astrolabe as an icon of exploration, often found in old maps and maritime art.

Cultural Significance

Astrolabe references in academics often connect to history or science, especially astronomy.

Technical Context

Today's astrolabes are software, reflecting how technology evolves to maintain historical methods.

Digital Evolution

Modern digital astrolabes are used for learning and simulate the sky on screens.

Educational Use

Digital astrolabes make astronomy accessible to amateurs without physical equipment.

Accessibility

 It was the world's first popular computer. And it was a device that, in fact, is a model of the sky. So, the different parts of the astrolabe, in this particular type, the rete corresponds to the positions of the stars. The plate corresponds to a coordinate system.