Georg Peuerbach (actual name Georg Aunpekh, 1423-1461) worked as a mathematician, astronomer and instrument maker in Vienna and was the teacher of Johannes Müller from Königsberg, known as Regiomontanus. Several astrolabes are attributed to his circle, such as an instrument from 1457 (Germanisches Nationalmuseum, Nuremberg; inv. no. WI129, diameter 129 mm) and the so-called Wallenstein astrolabe (until 1975 Greppin Collection, diameter 137 mm). Both instruments feature a moon phase volvelle on the reverse side as well as a diagonally bisected octagon, which takes over the function of the usual shadow square. Signatures are missing. These instruments form the basis for this reproduction.
This instrument has three insert plates or tympana for the geographic latitudes 33°/38°, 43°/48° and 53°/58°, each with 3° almucantars, 5° azimuth lines, twilight lines, unequal hours and astrological house boundaries. The almucantars 15°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 75° are highlighted. The rete, decorated with small rings and mottled lace, has 31 star positions.
The complete description of the instrument as PDF for download
