
3 1 c m
40cm
actual image size: 32cm x 23cm
Description
Miniature orrery made by the well known English instrument-maker Edward Troughton (1753-1835). It has armillary bands and an octagonal base, and shows three planets including the Earth and Moon. Orreries are clockwork or hand-driven models of the Copernican (Sun-centred) solar system, named after Charles Boyle, Forth Earl of Orrery (1676-1731) who commissioned and purchased an early example. Orreries proved popular with lecturers and gentlemen at home and, during the 19th and 20th centuries, as educational aids.
Image Details
Image Ref.
10437825
© Science Museum / Science & Society Picture Library