From the Whipple Museum. Contains articles on astronomical instruments and techniques as well as prominent classical and traditional astronomerastrologers. Astrology belief in the physical influence of planetary rays on earth is one of the most important historical contexts in which astronomy developed. Astrology served as a motivation as well as a means of gainful employment for astronomers. The Babylonians meticulously compiled tablets of the position of Venus, as it was believed to signify omens for weather, war, famine, diseases, rulers and kingdoms. Ptolemy composed the Tetrabiblos, believing that astrology could be placed on a rational footing, despite being a conjectural art like medicine. In practice, belief in astrology meant that horoscopes were cast for newborn children, prospective spouses and political enemies, public buildings were opened and marriage and other ceremonies conducted on auspicious days. Numerous records of astrological practice can be found from the Roman times.

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