Final answer:
The astrolabe was crucial for Indian Ocean traders to navigate by the stars, determining their latitude by measuring the angles of celestial bodies. Inaccurate in bad weather, it was later supplanted by the sextant. The astrolabe's peak use and improvements align with the Islamic Golden Age and the Age of Discovery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The astrolabe was an important tool for Indian Ocean traders because it helped them to navigate by measuring the angles of celestial bodies above the horizon to determine the time of day, as well as sunrise and sunset times. This was essential for mariners to find their north-south position on the Earth's surface when at sea, particularly on clear nights. The history of the astrolabe spans several cultures and its development is attributed to multiple civilizations, but it experienced significant refinement during the Islamic Golden Age. While ancient versions existed, the improved astrolabe that was predominant during the age of exploration was a result of the scientific advancements in the Islamic world, owing to their needs in trade, travel, and astronomical studies.
Unfortunately, the astrolabe had its limitations—it was inaccurate during cloudy days and rough seas. Technological progress later led to the invention of the sextant around 1730, which greatly improved maritime navigation as it was less affected by the choppy conditions of the sea. Despite its limitations, the astrolabe remains an iconic symbol of early navigation and played a pivotal role in the Age of Discovery, facilitating the expansion of trade routes and intercultural exchanges.