| Name: | Jaskirat Singh |
| Affiliation: | Motilal Nehru College, University of Delhi |
| Conference ID : | ASI2024_482 |
| Title : | Unraveling Celestial Legacy: Jantar Mantar's Astronomical Heritage through Citizen Science |
| Authors : | Jaskirat Singh A1, Rakhi Suklan B1, Mansi Vats C2, Kaushal Joshi D1, Megha Rajoria E3 |
| Authors Affiliation: | 1 Motilal Nehru College, University of Delhi, New Delhi - 110021, India.
2 Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, New Delhi - 110007, India.
3 RADatHomeIndia, India |
| Mode of Presentation: | Poster |
| Abstract Category : | Education, Outreach and Heritage |
| Abstract : | The term "Jantar Mantar" refers to a collection of architectural and astronomical instruments located in various Indian cities, including Jaipur, Delhi, Mathura, Varanasi, and Ujjain, all established by Maharaja Jai Singh II in the 18th century to facilitate precise astronomical measurements and predictions. In 2004, a revitalization effort spearheaded by Dr. Nandivada Rathnasree, aimed at restoring the observatory in Delhi for astronomical research in Positional Astronomy. This initiative has not only enabled the recording of celestial events but has also played a pivotal role in the preservation of the observatory's instruments, which had suffered from deterioration due to various factors. Another noteworthy aspect is their inspiring presence in public spaces, allowing visitors to engage in a hands-on astronomical experience and thereby exemplifying the development of scientific curiosity.
The Jantar Mantar in Delhi comprises instruments that are prominent in timekeeping and measuring coordinates of celestial objects with a remarkable degree of precision. Previous observations have demonstrated their accuracy, with errors limited to within a range of 0.1-1 degree. This year, in a collaborated project with Nehru Planetarium, we focused on the Ram Yantra (North building). Studying this intricate instrument involved the meticulous measurement of the Sun's coordinates (altitude and azimuth). The data collection process, marked by multiple iterations for accuracy, yielded invaluable insights into the instrument's capabilities.
This research not only underscores the significance of the preservation of astronomical heritage but also highlights their role in promoting citizen science initiatives. The study of the Ram Yantra emphasizes its precision in measuring celestial coordinates. Such endeavors contribute significantly to a deeper understanding of historical instruments and their relevance in contemporary astronomical research. This masonry observatory serves as a gateway to the past while allowing us to observe the present, serving as an exemplary embodiment of the development of scientific temperament.
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