Hwar AlMadar: Astrolabes & Islamic Instruments That Shaped the World

Join us for this live podcast recording with Captain Augusto Alves Salgado (Maritime Museum, Lisbon) and Dr. Silke Ackermann (History of Science Museum, Oxford) as they discuss the extraordinary scientific instruments of the Islamic world, from astrolabes to celestial globes. This session explores how these objects transformed navigation, astronomy, and timekeeping, shaping global knowledge.

This conversation is part of Hwar AlMadar, a live podcast series featuring leading experts from institutions around the world that contributed to AlMadar in the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 in Jeddah. The podcast series is produced in partnership with afikra | عفكرة. 

What will you learn?
Participants will gain insight into the fascinating stories behind the objects showcased in AlMadar, exploring how they were crafted, their cultural significance, and their connections to Islamic art and history. The podcast also highlights the collaborative efforts of global institutions, revealing the narratives that shaped these remarkable artifacts and their influence on contemporary understandings of Islamic culture.   

Who is it for?
This podcast is for anyone passionate about Islamic art, history, and culture—including scholars, students, and enthusiasts curious about the themes of AlMadar, its institutions, and the objects featured.