The exhibition features a barometer housed in a carved wooden case with a rich brown finish. The white dial displays an inscription in German: “Opticion, A. Edelberg, Rostow s. D.” This device was purchased by the writer’s father, Aleksander Mikhailovich Zakrutkin, and brought to Kochetovskaya in the 1950s. It now holds a prominent place in the office of Vitaly Aleksandrovich Zakrutkin.

Aleksander Zakrutkin was a man of broad horizons and diverse interests. In both his family and the schools where Aleksander Zakrutkin worked, he was regarded as a tireless worker. “My father was an extraordinary person, full of energy. I don’t remember him ever sitting idle,” recalled Vitaly Zakrutkin.

Aleksander Zakrutkin taught additional classes in mathematics, geography, and physics to his students. He dedicated time to excursions with schoolchildren, organizing trips to the forest and river, for which he prepared in advance and encouraged his students to do the same. Aleksander Mikhailovich also arranged night astronomy lessons in the open air, inviting students along with their parents. He always brought his children — Vitaly, Rostislav, Angelina, and Yevgeny — so they could gaze at the stars together.

Vitaly Zakrutkin shared with his friends that he never forgot the “lessons-excursions” during which his father taught him about the constellations Orion and Perseus, as well as Coma Berenices. This enchantment with the universe and his fascination for it were instilled in Zakrutkin through his father’s influence.

Much in Vitaly Zakrutkin’s house evokes memories of his father, including portraits, photographs, wooden crafts, and books. Among these cherished items is a barometer, displayed on the wall of the bookcase in the center of the writer’s office.

A barometer is an instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure. The term “barometer” is derived from the ancient Greek words “baros, ” meaning weight, and “metros, ” meaning to measure.

Barometers are typically categorized into two main types: liquid and mechanical. Mechanical barometers are more popular due to their compact size and high accuracy. This is the type of barometer found in the office of Vitaly Zakrutkin.