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KF5JRV > TECH 19.04.16 12:32l 15 Lines 862 Bytes #999 (0) @ WW
BID : 1758_KF5JRV
Read: GUEST
Subj: Programmable Clock
Path: IZ3LSV<IW0QNL<JH4XSY<JE7YGF<N9PMO<NS2B<N0KFQ<KF5JRV
Sent: 160419/1123Z 1758@KF5JRV.#NWAR.AR.USA.NA BPQ1.4.65
Programmable Clock
In addition to telling the time of day or night, an astronomical clock
also keeps track of celestial information. For example, an astronomical
clock might display a rotating map of the stars or show the phases of
the moon. The most famous water-driven astronomical clock was designed
by our old friend Al-Jazari in 1206. This device was one of the first
programmable computers; it allowed the operator to reprogram the
duration of each day to account for seasonal changes. The machine
stood over three meters (9.8 feet) high and utilized many different
functions. It tracked the orbits of the sun and moon, indicated the
current zodiac sign, and featured a moving crescent moon that opened
the doors for the figures to exit. To keep the mood festive, Al-Jazari
even included animated figures that played music throughout the day.
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