armillary sphere
1 of 1noun/ˈɑrmɪlɛri sfɪr/
Forms:armillary spheres
1
a model of the celestial sphere, historically used to depict and study the positions of celestial objects, consisting of a series of hoops representing important circles in the sky
- The armillary sphere was used by astronomers in ancient Greece to demonstrate the motions of stars and planets.
- During the Renaissance, armillary spheres became intricate works of art, crafted from brass and adorned with decorative features.
- The armillary sphere in the museum's collection accurately depicts the positions of stars and constellations.
- In historical texts, scholars often refer to the armillary sphere as a fundamental tool for celestial navigation.
- Today, modern replicas of armillary spheres serve as educational tools in astronomy classrooms and planetariums.
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