Honchonui

   Honchonui (a celestial globe) is one of the astronomical observation instruments used in the period of the feudal Joson dynasty to measure the astronomical figures such as the orbits of the celestial bodies.

   At the beginning, it was combined with Jakyongru (an automatic water-clock) in order to observe not only the motion and orbits of the celestial bodies but also the time.

   In the 17th century, it was developed into one with a clock which worked with the principle of gears.

   In the mid-19th century, based on the analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the same kinds at home and abroad, a new type of it was invented measuring 19 astronomical figures.

   Honchonui is a precious national heritage that demonstrates the astronomical development of that time.