Star globes function by giving approximate elevations and azimuths of navigational stars for a hemisphere in a specific year. They provide a navigator who is operating in an unfamiliar region a quick reference for preparing a sextant "shot." Star globes began appearing for maritime use in the late nineteenth century and were used as late as 1980. Their primary application was in long nautical voyages. This Japanese example was acquired by the Army Air Forces as part of their technical collection. While aeronautical use of star globes is largely unknown, the acquisition of this globe in an aeronautical context suggests it may have been employed by the Japanese long-range aircraft program that took the form of the Tachikawa Ki-77 aircraft intended to operate a non-stop shuttle service between Tokyo and Berlin, either by flying north of the Soviet Union or across the Indian Ocean and Iran to occupied German territory. One attempt at the latter route resulted in the loss of the aircraft, but another survived the war.
Display Status
This object is on display in Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Date
1942
Country of Origin
Japan
Type
INSTRUMENTS-Navigational
Manufacturer
Tamaya Trading Co. Ltd
Physical Description
150mm dia.;460mm cir.; metal ring mount has degree marks
Dimensions
3-D: 19.7 x 19.7 x 20.3cm (7 3/4 x 7 3/4 x 8 in.)
Materials
Paper, steel, white metal, copper alloy, wood, felt, adhesive
Inventory Number
A19601236000
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Air Force
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.