In celebration of  Qatar - Morocco Year of Culture 2024, we will highlight famous Moroccan astrolabe makers and showcase examples of their surviving astrolabes.

The astrolabe, a portable astronomical instrument, was the most important popular scientific tool for almost a millennium. Although it was eventually replaced by other instruments from the 18th century onwards, the production of astrolabes continued well into the 19th century, particularly in two Islamic countries: Iran and Morocco. Numerous manuscripts and astrolabes in museums and libraries around the world showcase the richness and beauty of this tradition. Abu Bakr ibn Yusuf and Ibn Battuta are prominent examples of Moroccan astrolabe makers, who produced beautiful astronomical instruments prized not only for their functionality but also for their aesthetic beauty.

During this workshop, participants will be introduced to the history, anatomy, and use of the astrolabe through an introductory lecture and hands-on workshop. Additionally, we will present books, manuscripts, and instruments from the Heritage Library Collection related to the history of astronomy and instrument making in Morocco.

This lecture will be presented by Huseyin Sen, Information Services Librarian, QNL Distinctive Collections

Date: 30 September 2024 

Time: 4:30 - 6:30 PM

Language: English 

Target Audience: Public - 16 years and above 

Seats are limited, please click the button below to register.