Card Gallery

Cygnus and Lyra constellations

Cygnus and Lyra constellations. Illustrated card from a 19th century astronomical teaching aid called Urania's Mirror, after the Greek muse of astronomy. There are 32 cards in total. The cards are pierced with holes corresponding to the brightest stars so the pattern of the constellations can be seen when held up to the light. The cards were published in London, England, and it is thought they date from around 1825. This card shows the constellations Lacerta (the lizard), Cygnus (the swan), Lyra (the lyre, a musical instrument), Vulpecula (the little fox), and Anser (the goose; obsolete). For all 32 cards, see V700/172-203

© ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Gemini constellation

Gemini constellation. Illustrated card from a 19th century astronomical teaching aid called Urania's Mirror, after the Greek muse of astronomy. There are 32 cards in total. The cards are pierced with holes corresponding to the brightest stars so the pattern of the constellations can be seen when held up to the light. The cards were published in London, England, and it is thought they date from around 1825. This card shows the constellation Gemini (the twins). For all 32 cards, see V700/172-203

© ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Aries and Musca Borealis constellations

Aries and Musca Borealis constellations. Illustrated card from a 19th century astronomical teaching aid called Urania's Mirror, after the Greek muse of astronomy. There are 32 cards in total. The cards are pierced with holes corresponding to the brightest stars so the pattern of the constellations can be seen when held up to the light. The cards were published in London, England, and it is thought they date from around 1825. This card shows the constellations Aries (the ram), and Musca Borealis (the northern fly, formerly Vespa the wasp; obsolete). For all 32 cards, see V700/172-203

© ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY