The Book of Fixed Stars

The Book of Fixed Stars is an ancient astronomical text that catalogs the position of stars as they appear fixed in the sky, unlike the planets which move relative to them. Compiled by the Persian astronomer Abd al-Rahman al-Sufi in the 10th century, it offers detailed descriptions of over 1,000 stars, their brightness, and constellations. This work blends observational astronomy with cultural insights, serving as both a scientific guide and a scholarly reference for understanding the night sky. It laid foundational knowledge for subsequent star cataloging and helped astronomers track celestial movements over time.