Astronomy

History
The study of astronomy Gielinor started in the Fourth Age when Scorpius started to study the stars. He built himself a telescope and started to used the stars for divination, naming the constellations as he researched. He had an apprentice named Phyrrys. After he fell in with some Zamorakian worshippers, his work was destroyed by the kings of Ardougne. A grave was constructed in his memory just north of the Observatory, and it is here that you can speak to the Spirit of Scorpius. More history of Scorpius can be found in the Astronomy book.

Observatory
The biggest telescope is on the top floor of the Observatory, which must be repaired during the Observatory Quest before being used. Its design is based on that of Scorpius, and it currently run by the Observatory professor and Observatory assistant. Through it you can view some of the constellations in the sky. On the walls on the lower floor of the observatory are some charts which show the 12 constellations, which are the standard astrological constellations. i.e. Capricorn, Aquarius etc. There is also an Orrery in the Observatory reception, which is where you can find the Astronomy book.

Player-owned house Study
Several pieces of astronomical equipment can be built in the study of a player owned house, including telescopes, globes, orreries and an astronomical chart. Unfortunately, they don't do much apart from look impressive.

Navigation
Players can navigate by the sun using a Sextant, Chart and Watch. Coordinates are given in degrees and minutes, with the Observatory being the centre at 0 degrees north (equator) and zero degrees east (meridian).

Celestial alignments
The Mahjarrat, gathering in the north, are apparently awaiting a particular celestial alignment, as General Khazard will say "The planets are nearing alignment; we will meet in the place of half light and ice soon". The villagers at Witchaven also seem to be waiting for a particular celestial alignment as they will tell you "Soon now... So soon. The stars are almost right".