Development and Transformation of Bektang (Gawang Lokasi) For Astronomy

Abstract

This article attempts to trace the development and transformation of the Bektang or Wicket location as a phenomenal astronomical instrument which is often used by rukyat experts in observing the new moon. Bektang or Gawang lokasi is a simple tool that is quite accurate in localizing the new moon. As time goes by, astronomical instruments also continue to develop and transform to help and make it easier for astronomical experts to carry out calculations and practice in the field, including bektang tools or Gawang lokasi. This article aims to trace the history related to the transformation and development of bektang or gawang lokasi in determining the beginning of the Qomariyah month, so that the transformation of gawang lokasi can continue to exist as technology develops. This article uses a qualitative method with a historical analysis approach obtained from various data collection sources and documents, that are relevant to this research. With the framework of this research, it was discovered that the Bektang has actually been around since the 1900s, this tool was created by two prominent falak figures, namely Djambek and Tangsoban, so it was given the name "BekTang", this tool was then developed to become several tools that are more practical and easy to use. such as coordinate poles, hilal tracker, and also hilal locator