Jantar Mantar, Delhi, India
Posted by: 
michael3900
N 28° 37.613 E 077° 12.991
43R E 716688 N 3168657
The Jantar Mantar in Delhi is the first and one of several astronomical observatories raised by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur in 1724 that now lies in the heart of Delhi's commercial center near Connaught place.
Waymark Code: WM4PTC
Location: India
Date Posted: 09/16/2008
Views: 25
Between 1724 and 1734 Maharajah Jai Singh II of Jaipur constructed five astronomical observatories in west central India. This one is in Delhi, the other four are located at Jaipur, Varanasi, Ujjain and Mathura.
The observatories, or "Jantar Mantars" as they are commonly known, incorporate multiple buildings of unique form, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement. These structures with their striking combinations of geometric forms at large scale, have captivated the attention of architects, artists, and art historians world wide, yet remain largely unknown to the general public.
The various abstract structures within the Jantar Mantar are, in fact, instruments that were used for keeping track of celestal bodies. Yet, Jantar Mantar is not only a timekeeper of celestial bodies, it also tells a lot about the technological achievements under the Rajput kings and their attempt to resolve the mysteries regarding astronomy.
Observatory Purpose: Research
Optical / Infrared Telescopes?: No
Radio Telescopes?: No
Solar Telescopes?: No
Open to the Public?: Yes
Is this a Club Observatory?: No
Public Viewing Allowed?: Yes
Active Observatory?: Active
Number of Telescopes or Antennas: 3 to 5
Site URL: [Web Link]
Year Dedicated or Opened: 1724
Altitude (meters): 233
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Visit Instructions:Note the time of day of your visit, and your own photo of your favorite part of the observatory. This might be the view from the observatory, picture of your favorite building or favorite exhibit. (Be mindful of flash photography rules!)
If you participated in an observing session, let everyone know what you saw!