Mathematical methods in ancient astronomy

Mathematical Methods in Ancient Astronomy

1. Chronological remarks. The main source for our knowledge of ancient astronomy is Ptolemy. His Mathematical composition, commonly known as the Almagest, quotes observations of his own ranging from 127 to 142 A.D. [35; 36; 37]. This work seems to be the earliest of a whole series of fundamental works, such as his Geography [41 ], the Tetrabiblos [39; 40], and so on, whose influence on mediaeva...

The History of Ancient Astronomy: Problems and Methods*

Ancient Astronomy, Science And The Ancient Greeks

In fact, this assumption is incorrect and, whilst the Ancient Greek astronomers made huge contributions to astronomy, their knowledge was built upon the solid foundations laid by other great cultures. The Mesopotamian [1] and Zoroastrian astronomers and astrologers, in the Fertile Crescent and the empty deserts of Persia, made many sophisticated observations and devised complex theories to desc...

Ancient Astronomy, Science And The Ancient Greeks

In fact, this assumption is incorrect and, whilst the Ancient Greek astronomers made huge contributions to astronomy, their knowledge was built upon the solid foundations laid by other great cultures. The Mesopotamian [1] and Zoroastrian astronomers and astrologers, in the Fertile Crescent and the empty deserts of Persia, made many sophisticated observations and devised complex theories to desc...

The Mathematical Power of Epicyclical Astronomy