ASTROLABE - AN ASTRONOMICAL COMPUTER Start Price USD 1,750.00 Current Price USD 1,750.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Saturday, August 16, 2008 End Time Saturday, August 23, 2008 Location Long Island See more about 'ASTROLABE - AN ASTRONOMICAL COMPUTER' Description The astrolabe is a very ancient astronomical computer for solving problems relating to time and the position of the Sun and stars in the sky.  The history of the astrolabe begins more than two thousand years ago. The principles of the astrolabe projection were known before 150 B.C., and true astrolabes were made before A.D. 400. The astrolabe was highly developed in the Islamic world by 800 and was introduced to Europe from Islamic Spain (Andalusia) in the early 12th century. It was the most popular astronomical instrument until about 1650, when it was replaced by more specialized and accurate instruments. Astrolabes are still appreciated for their unique capabilites and their value for astronomy education.   This astrolabe is 7" in diameter and is a well made reproduction of a 16th century original.  It was made by a skilled scientist, machinist in the US.  Free shipping in the US.  Please note the last 4 pictures.  Christies Auction catalog dated June, 1988 shows 2 Portugese astrolabes with a pre-auction estimate of $50,000 - $80,000.  Free shipping in the US. Place a Bid!