The Astrolabe
Jim Morrison's wonderful book explains everything that can be said about the astrolabe and related instruments, including all the details of their construction and use. It is animated throughout by a cheerful faith that this preeminent tool of astronomers past can still play a role in 21st-century scientific education and practical life. If you have ever wondered "how an astrolabe works" (at any level of detail), this is the book that will tell you. --Dr. Bruce Stephenson, Curator, Webster Institute for the History of AstronomyThe Astrolabe by Jim Morrison promises to be THE STANDARD on the subject for years to come. Jim has been a reliable resource for me for many years in my studies and work in the field of astrolabes. Anyone that wants to look into all of the nooks and crannies of this fascinating subject will have to have his book. --John Lamprey - author of "Hartmann's Practika" (2002), and co-author of "Stoeffler's Elucidatio" (2007).The astrolabe is one of the most significant scientific instruments of all times. What other instrument has been in continuous use for nearly 2000 years? It solved the critical problems of its day and continues to be admired for its ingenuity and usefulness. The Astrolabe focuses on the instrument itself. Morrison retraces the astrolabe s evolution over the ages and shows how their designs changed and their inscriptions evolved to serve its users. He even hints at its astrological uses where one s fate might rest with the rising or setting of a lucky star. Morrison fast forwards the astrolabe to modern times. He shows how, with dedication, you can make your own surprisingly accurate and beautiful astrolabe. Everything is included: modern star positions, formulas for making graphics and examples of recently crafted instruments. Anyone interested in the history of science or fields like astronomy, navigation or surveying will be astonished at the variety, beauty and utility of the astrolabe. Morrison's book is beautifully illustrated, and supported by a series of useful and instructive appendices. --Dr. Edward S. Popko