Mapa Jižní Hvězdné Oblohy 1950.0

This celestial map, Mapa Jižní Hvězdné Oblohy 1950.0, created by J. Klepešta and published in 1971, is a visually striking and scientifically detailed representation of the southern night sky. The design is both elegant and functional, with a crisp black star chart set against a muted green background, which enhances readability while maintaining a vintage aesthetic that is characteristic of mid-20th-century scientific cartography.

The map provides a comprehensive projection of the southern celestial hemisphere, meticulously detailing constellations, star magnitudes, and key astronomical features. The inclusion of colored markings and fine line work illustrates the relative brightness of stars and celestial paths, while the precisely measured coordinate grid allows for accurate orientation. Notable features include the depiction of prominent nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies, which are accompanied by photographic insets at the bottom, offering a fascinating glimpse into deep-space objects as they were observed at the time.

The clarity of the typographic choices and the well-balanced layout reflect Klepešta’s dedication to both scientific accuracy and visual appeal. The map also includes spectral classification color bars, providing additional context for stellar compositions. The labeling, executed in Czech, adds to the document’s historical and geographical significance, as it was produced during a period of intense astronomical study in Czechoslovakia.

Overall, this celestial map is an exceptional artifact that combines scientific rigor with the artistry of vintage cartography. It serves not only as a useful reference for astronomers of its era but also as a collectible piece of astronomical history, offering insight into how the southern sky was charted and studied over half a century ago.