In 1296, he improved the armillary sphere into an astronomical observation apparatus, in which he discarded the ecliptic ring, and combined the azimuth, equatorial torquetum (a kind of measuring instrument), and sundial into one, which not only simplified the structure but also made the armillary sphere more accurate. It overcame the shortages of the armillary sphere in having too many rings, being difficult to operate, and having limited measuring capacity.
The equator device in Guo's new instrument was an important invention in astronomical apparatus making and very similar to that in modern astronomical telescopes. Occupying an important position in the world's history of astronomy, Guo's torquetum was 300 years earlier than a similar instrument produced by Danish astronomers.
Due to elapse of long time, the original instruments left by Guo Shoujing have been lost. A glimpse of several of his instruments can only be gotten from the duplicates produced in later times.
To commemorate the 750th anniversary of Guo Shoujing's birth, in 1981 the International Astronomical Union named a circular mountain on the moon and the minor planet number 2010 in the solar system after Guo. Guo Shoujing who enriched the human scientific civilization with his achievements in many fields, is a giant admired by his posterity.
Author: Jessie
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