Photo of the week
The Great Astrolabe
Thursday 06 January 2011
Later this month visitors to MUSA can learn more about one of the University's treasures, the Great Astrolabe.
The Great Astrolabe was made by Humphrey Cole of London, 1575, with plate made by John Marke of London in the 1670s. Astrolabes can be used for navigation, surveying, astronomical calculation and astrological purposes. This exceptionally beautiful instrument was made by Cole, the most important scientific instrument maker of the Elizabethan age, and is widely regarded as his masterpiece. It is thought to have been brought to St Andrews by James Gregory, the University’s Professor of Mathematics, in about 1673, for use in the planned University observatory.
Further information on the lunchtime event on 20 January can be found at Inspired by the Great Astrolabe - MUSA Lunchtime Talk.