* Hipparchus, a Greek astronomer in the 2nd century BC, is often cited as the inventor of the astrolabe. However, his contributions are more likely to be the development of trigonometry, which was essential for astrolabe calculations.
* Apollonius of Perga, another Greek mathematician and astronomer in the 3rd century BC, is also credited with advancements that paved the way for the astrolabe.
* The earliest known astrolabe dates back to the 1st century BC, found in the Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient Greek astronomical calculator.
It's important to note that the astrolabe likely developed gradually over time, with different cultures making their own contributions. The Greeks are widely recognized for their significant role in its development.
