Astrolabe Advanced

thingiverse

The astrolabe is a highly versatile instrument that doubles as an accurate time-telling device, functioning effectively both day and night. It also offers basic surveying capabilities, enabling users to determine distances, depths, and heights with precision. To facilitate this project, I have included a zip file containing plates tailored for latitudes between 30-70N. **Tools Required** To bring the astrolabe to life, you will need: * A laser cutter * A 3D printer * A laser printer **Materials Needed** The following materials are essential for this project: * A sheet of 1/8 inch clear cast acrylic * A sheet of 1/8 inch opaque cast acrylic (Blue and Black work well) **Hardware Components** To assemble the astrolabe, you will need the following hardware: * #6-32 screws and locknuts (1-inch, 2 3/4-inch lengths) **Files Provided** The files included are: * advanced_front_arabic: The front plate * blank: The center section * advanced_back: The back plate * rete: The rotating section * Alidade, Rule, Double Rule: Parts to be printed using a 3D printer (select one rule) **Laser File Color Codes** The laser files are colored as follows: RED: Cut through the material BLUE, GREEN: Cut/etch surface; adjust speed/power for optimal results BLACK: Raster scan **Assembly Process** To assemble the astrolabe, follow these steps: 1. Cut one front, one back, one rete, and one blank plate. 2. The front and back plates are cut from clear acrylic, while the rete and blank plates are cut from opaque acrylic. 3. Print the two STL files: Alidade and your chosen rule. 4. Select a climate plate closest to your latitude and print it out; cutting it out is optional, but lamination can help reduce wear. 5. When assembling the parts: * Place a screw in the lower hole at the top of the astrolabe. * Place a screw through the front, blank, and back plates, then tighten with a locknut. Repeat for the bottom hole. * Cut out the marked hole on the climate plate and place it in the center hollow of the front plate, ensuring proper alignment. Secure it with tape to prevent turning during use. * Place a long screw through the center hole of the Alidade arm, then through the back plate. Set the rete over the screw and secure it into the hollow above the climate plate. Finally, place the rule arm over the screw and tighten with a locknut. **Additional Resources** For further information on the astrolabe project, visit: * My blog: <http://www.astrolabeproject.com/> * Class handout: <http://astrolabeproject.com/downloads/Astrolabe_in_Theory_and_Practice.pdf> * Simulator: <http://www.astrolabeproject.com/sim/astrolabe/sim.html>