| Sundials at their best
Centuries ago armillary spheres were used to study the sky. Today armillary spheres are still used to observe the sky, but are more commonly used to add a decorative touch to gardens and yards.
What Is A Brass Armillary?
An armillary sphere is basically a type of sundial. While some are quite elaborate in design they all include an armillary stand and a sphere that represents the celestial sphere. The sphere is comprised of interlocking rings that support the gnomon, which is the structure that casts the shadow to determine the time.
The History
It's often debated who should receive credit for the development of the armillary sphere. A Greek philosopher named Anaximander of Miletus (611-547 B.C.) and a Greek astronomer named Hipparchus (190-120 B.C.) have both been listed as possibilities, but neither option has ever been confirmed.
While armillary spheres have been around for well over a thousand years it wasn't until the Middle Ages that they became a popular way to observe the sky. This was mostly due to great improvements and enhancements that were made to the armillary sphere.
Unfortunately the same year that the globe was constructed Nicholas Copernicus determined that the sun, not the earth, is the center of the solar system. This made all existing armillary spheres obsolete because the earth was positioned at the center of the sphere. |  |
How To Find One
An aluminum armillary sphere can be a handsome accent to any garden or lawn. Garden armillary spheres are available in a number of sizes and materials. Whether you are looking for a five-foot cast iron armillary sphere or one a little less elaborate, a simple search online will pull up several options for you.
An attractive steel armillary sphere can be purchased for as little as $30. However, depending on its size and the material used to construct the garden armillary, you can spend well over $1,000 for one.
