Medieval Astrolabe Navigation Instrument

This project is a historically inspired medieval astrolabe designed as a functional handheld astronomical instrument for celestial navigation demonstrations.

The build combines engraved angular measurement scales, interchangeable sighting arms, and rotating astronomical alignment systems inspired by medieval Islamic and European astrolabes.

The design includes two interchangeable arms:

• Stellar Sighting Arm
A historically inspired mountain-sight alignment arm used for observing stars like Polaris.

• Solar Projection Arm
A modernized educational adaptation that uses removable straw sights and projected sunlight on cardstock to safely demonstrate solar elevation.

The astrolabe was modeled in Tinkercad using real-world caliper measurements for hardware tolerances and removable components.

Features:
• 200mm engraved mater
• Interchangeable astronomical arms
• Functional celestial alignment
• Solar projection capability
• M3 hardware assembly
• 3D printable modular design

Printing Notes:
• Copper Silk PLA recommended for the mater
• Matte black or dark bronze PLA recommended for the arms
• Arms print flat without supports
• Designed around 3.25mm M3 pivot holes
• Straw channels designed at 8mm diameter

This project was created as a historically inspired educational instrument rather than a strict museum reproduction.