This device is designed to present the movement of celestial bodies of the northern and southern hemispheres, which are respectively engraved on each side of the brass panel. The circular frame of the astrolabe marks 360° division of angles, the sections of the twelve oriental zodiac signs, names of major constellations and the twenty-four seasonal subdivisions. An arc in the middle of the panel indicates the horizon.

East Asian astronomy and astrometeorology traditionally developed as an intellectual field of a sovereign because of its close links to politics. Throughout history knowing seasonal subdivisions for farming and precise time-telling has been of significant concern for people. Also the kings of Joseon paid considerable attention to the observation and analysis of heavenly bodies, including the movements of the sun and the moon and the seasonal change of constellations, and they applied their findings to their rule.