Observational Equipment of the Beijing Ancient Observatory
I. Introduction
The Beijing Ancient Observatory, as a core base for ancient Chinese astronomy, not only witnesses the historical trajectory of astronomical development but also attracts numerous astronomers and history enthusiasts with its rich observational equipment. These instruments mainly include the equatorial armillary sphere, ecliptic armillary sphere, quadrant, celestial globe, sextant, and theodolite. In the late 1715, Kilian Stumpf was appointed to manufacture the azimuth theodolite. During the Qianlong period (1744), Emperor Qianlong ordered the construction of the final instrument — the New Armillary Sphere (Jiheng Armillary Sphere), which not only showcases the superb craftsmanship of ancient Chinese astronomy but also embodies the achievements of scientific and technological exchanges between China and the West.
Reference：Beijing Ancient Observatory
II. Introduction to Major Astronomical Instruments
- Equatorial Armillary Sphere
1.1 Definition and Uses
The equatorial armillary sphere is a precision instrument used to measure the right ascension and declination of celestial bodies, capable of accurately tracking their positional changes in the equatorial coordinate system.
1.2 Characteristics and Value
The equatorial armillary sphere boasts intricate design and complex structure, representing the height of ancient Chinese astronomy. It is not only an important tool for observing celestial bodies but also an essential piece of evidence for studying ancient astronomy and mechanical manufacturing techniques.
- Ecliptic Armillary Sphere
2.1 Definition and Uses
The ecliptic armillary sphere is used to observe the positional changes of the sun on the ecliptic, which is crucial for studying astronomical phenomena such as solar and lunar eclipses.
2.2 Characteristics and Value
The ecliptic armillary sphere can visually demonstrate the sun's movement轨迹 on the ecliptic, assisting astronomers in predicting and explaining related astronomical phenomena. It is also an important tool for studying ancient astronomy and mathematics.
- Quadrant
3.1 Definition and Uses
The quadrant is an instrument used to measure the altitude of celestial bodies, playing a vital role in determining the position of celestial bodies and calculating the angular distance between them.
3.2 Characteristics and Value
The quadrant boasts a simple and practical design, easy to operate. It is one of the commonly used tools for ancient astronomers to conduct astronomical observations. Its emergence greatly improved the accuracy and efficiency of astronomical observations.
- Celestial Globe
4.1 Definition and Uses
The celestial globe simulates the distribution of celestial bodies around the earth, visually displaying the positions and relative relationships of various stars in the sky.
4.2 Characteristics and Value
The celestial globe boasts exquisite craftsmanship, with exquisite star maps and constellation patterns carved on its surface. It not only has a high ornamental value but is also an essential tool for studying ancient astronomy and cosmology.
- Sextant
5.1 Definition and Uses
The sextant is an instrument used to measure the angle between celestial bodies, determining their positions and relative distances by observing the angular relationship between two celestial bodies.
5.2 Characteristics and Value
The sextant boasts a delicate design and high measurement accuracy, an indispensable tool in ancient navigation and astronomical observations. Its emergence greatly promoted the development of navigation and the exploration of the universe.
- Theodolite
6.1 Definition and Uses
The theodolite is an instrument used to measure the longitude and latitude of ground points, crucial for determining geographical positions and mapping.
6.2 Characteristics and Value
The theodolite boasts a complex design and powerful functionality, capable of not only measuring the longitude and latitude of ground points but also performing various functions such as angle measurement and distance calculation. Its emergence greatly improved the accuracy and efficiency of geographical measurements, having a profound impact on the development of ancient geography.
III. Kilian Stumpf and the Azimuth Theodolite
In the late 1715, the renowned astronomical instrument maker Kilian Stumpf was appointed to manufacture the azimuth theodolite. This instrument combines the technological essence of both China and the West, boasting high precision, stability, ease of operation, and maintenance. The manufacture and use of the azimuth theodolite not only embodies the achievements of scientific and technological exchanges between China and the West but also injects new vitality into the development of ancient Chinese astronomy.
IV. The New Armillary Sphere (Jiheng Armillary Sphere) in the Qianlong Period
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Background and Construction
During the Qianlong period (1744), Emperor Qianlong ordered the construction of the final instrument — the New Armillary Sphere (Jiheng Armillary Sphere). This instrument combines the most advanced astronomical observation techniques of the time, becoming an essential supplement to the Beijing Ancient Observatory. -
Characteristics and Value
The New Armillary Sphere (Jiheng Armillary Sphere) boasts a unique design and powerful functionality. It can not only conduct high-precision astronomical observations but also simulate the movement轨迹 and positional changes of celestial bodies. Through the observational data obtained from the New Armillary Sphere (Jiheng Armillary Sphere), astronomers can gain a deeper understanding of the structure and movement laws of the universe, providing crucial references and insights for subsequent astronomical research.
V. Conclusion
The observational equipment of the Beijing Ancient Observatory is an important heritage of ancient Chinese astronomy. They not only witness the development of astronomy but also provide valuable resources for studying ancient science, technology, and culture. Through the introduction and study of these observational equipment, we can gain a deeper understanding of the wisdom and creativity of the ancient Chinese people, as well as their exploration and pursuit of the universe.
Q1: What are the main astronomical instruments exhibited at the Beijing Ancient Observatory?
A1: The main astronomical instruments exhibited at the Beijing Ancient Observatory include the equatorial armillary sphere, ecliptic armillary sphere, quadrant, celestial globe, sextant, and theodolite.
Q2: Who was Kilian Stumpf and what instrument did he manufacture for the Beijing Ancient Observatory?
A2: Kilian Stumpf was a renowned astronomical instrument maker who was appointed to manufacture the azimuth theodolite for the Beijing Ancient Observatory in the late 1715. This instrument combines the technological essence of both China and the West.
Q3: What is the significance of the New Armillary Sphere (Jiheng Armillary Sphere) constructed during the Qianlong period?
A3: The New Armillary Sphere (Jiheng Armillary Sphere) constructed during the Qianlong period is significant as it combines the most advanced astronomical observation techniques of the time. It can conduct high-precision astronomical observations and simulate the movement and positional changes of celestial bodies, providing crucial references and insights for subsequent astronomical research.