The Role Of The Astrolabe In The Golden Age Of Islamic Culture

Although technically not invented in the Golden Age of Islamic Culture, the Astrolabe developed its full potential of varying uses during such time. Although no models are known to survive, it is believed that the astrolabe was first developed by the Greek in around 150 BCE. The evidence to support this comes in the form of documented use by the famous astronomer Hipparchus who had used this device to help create a 2D representation of a 3D sky. Moreover, it wasn't until the growing scholarly culture during the Islamic golden age that this devise became far more diverse and complex, all well keeping its means of use simple.

The Islamic astrolabe was composed of four main pieces. The mater (base plate), the rete (top plated that hosted engraved