MESOLABE Meaning and
Definition
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A mesolabe is a navigational instrument used to determine the altitude of celestial objects, particularly the Sun and stars. It is a complex device consisting of a graduated arc with a moveable crossbar and other components, used for calculating the position of celestial bodies in relation to the observer's location on Earth.
The main purpose of a mesolabe is to measure the height of celestial objects above the horizon, aiding in the determination of latitude and time. The device typically consists of an arc-shaped quadrant with a horizontal bar, known as the "alhidade," which can be moved along the arc. One end of the bar has a sighting device, and the other is equipped with a weight to keep the bar steady.
To use a mesolabe, the observer aligns the sighting device with the celestial object, such as the Sun or a star. The position of the alhidade along the arc is then read, providing the altitude of the object. This information can be used to determine the observer's latitude, as well as approximate local time. Additionally, the mesolabe can be used in conjunction with other instruments, such as an astrolabe or quadrant, for more accurate navigational calculations.
The mesolabe was a precursor to more advanced instruments like the astrolabe, and it was widely used from ancient times until the Renaissance. It allowed sailors, astronomers, and astrologers to navigate, make astronomical observations, and create accurate celestial maps. However, with the development of more accurate and simpler instruments, the use of mesolabes gradually declined.
Common Misspellings for MESOLABE
- nesolabe
- kesolabe
- jesolabe
- mwsolabe
- mssolabe
- mdsolabe
- mrsolabe
- m4solabe
- m3solabe
- meaolabe
- mezolabe
- mexolabe
- medolabe
- meeolabe
- mewolabe
- mesilabe
- mesklabe
- mesllabe
- mesplabe
- mes0labe
Etymology of MESOLABE
The word "mesolabe" has its origins in Greek. It is a compound word consisting of "meso" which means "middle" or "between", and "labe" which means "to take" or "to grab". Therefore, "mesolabe" can be understood to mean "instrument for taking the middle". This term is commonly used in reference to a type of mathematical device or instrument used for solving various geometric problems.
Similar spelling words for MESOLABE
- MASLP,
- MSSLP,
- MESLP,
- Mesolobe,
- MSLPU,
- mSLAP,
- MSLBA,
- MSWLP,
- MCILIP.
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