During the Age of Exploration, the navigational tool that was developed and became revolutionary was the astrolabe. This instrument allowed sailors to measure the altitude of celestial bodies, particularly the sun and stars, enabling them to determine their latitude while at sea. The astrolabe improved the accuracy of navigation and was essential for long-distance voyages, helping explorers like Columbus and Magellan to traverse uncharted waters. Its use contributed greatly to the expansion of European exploration and the establishment of trade routes, significantly impacting global interactions in the following centuries.