Question

What locational problem did using the astrolabe help to solve?

The astrolabe could determine the correct latitudinal location of the ship.

The astrolabe made it possible to cut through heavy seas.

The astrolabe could determine the correct longitude location of the ship.

The astrolabe made it possible to steer into the wind.

Answer 1

Are you taking Earth Science?

An astrolabe is an elaborate inclinometer, historically used by astronomers, navigators, and astrologers. Its many uses include locating and predicting the positions of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars, determining local time given local latitude and vice-versa, surveying, triangulation, and to cast horoscopes. It was used in classical antiquity, the Islamic Golden Age, the European Middle Ages and Renaissance for all these purposes. In the Islamic world, it was also used to calculate the Qibla and to find the times for Salat, prayers.

There is often confusion between the astrolabe and the mariner's astrolabe. While the astrolabe could be useful for determining latitude on land, it was an awkward instrument for use on the heaving deck of a ship or in wind. The mariner's astrolabe was developed to solve these problems.

Answer 2

Oh wait! Is this History?!