A scientific instrument, seen through design
The Museum of Islamic Art Library in Doha is presenting The Astrolabe: Taker of the Stars, a display by Qatari graphic designer Khawla Al-Essa. Qatar Museums currently lists the display until 30 December 2026. This is an ongoing exhibition listing, not an announcement that it opened today.
The museum describes research undertaken from 2024 to 2026, developed through publications, sketches, printmaking, laser-cut models and interactive book design. Its focus is how historical scientific instruments can become accessible educational stories.
A connection to time and direction
In a separate collection feature, Qatar Museums explains that astrolabes were used for calculations including timekeeping through observations of the sun and stars, and determining the direction of prayer. That historical context helps explain the instrument’s interest for readers curious about the relationship between observation, design and daily life.
The collection feature and this library display are different resources. The exhibition description does not establish that a particular antique astrolabe from the permanent collection is included in the display. The two official links below let readers explore each on its own terms.
Check the library information before you go
Use the library’s dedicated page for its opening hours rather than assuming every museum opening hour applies to the library. At the time of this check, the museum also displays a notice that it will be closed to the public on Sunday, 25 October 2026.
Confirm the current schedule and entry arrangements with the museum before making a trip. The closing date shown on an exhibition listing does not mean access is available every day. This article summarises official visitor information; AL-Naqawa is not the event organiser or a ticket seller.
Sources and further reading
- Qatar Museums: The Astrolabe: Taker of the Stars exhibition listing ↗Checked 18 October 2026
- MIA Library: library hours and current museum closure notice ↗Checked 18 October 2026
- Qatar Museums: Collection Highlight: The Astrolabe (historical background) ↗Source published 14 February 2024Checked 18 October 2026
