Lokamats

Lokamats are a type of ancient Indian astronomical instrument used for measuring the altitude of celestial bodies. They are also known as astrolabes or planispheres. Lokamats were widely used in ancient India for various purposes, including astronomical observations, timekeeping, and navigation.

These instruments were typically made of wood or metal and consisted of a circular or semi-circular disc with calibrated scales and marks for different astrological signs and celestial bodies. The user would place the lokamats on a flat surface and align it with the celestial body of interest, such as a star or planet. By referring to the calibrated scales and marks on the instrument, the user could determine the altitude, azimuth, and time of the celestial body.

Lokamats were an essential tool for ancient Indian astronomers and navigators. They enabled users to accurately measure the altitude of celestial bodies and make important observations about the movements of the stars and planets. These instruments were also used for astrological purposes, such as predicting weather patterns and determining auspicious times for important events.

The use of lokamats dates back to the ancient Indian period of the Indus Valley Civilization, around 2500 BCE. They were widely used and prevalent throughout the Indian subcontinent, with variations found in different regions. While the use of lokamats declined with the advent of modern astronomical instruments, these ancient instruments continue to hold significant historical and cultural importance in the study of Indian astronomy and its impact on the history of science.