Astronomy in the Ancient World

Early and Modern Views on Celestial Events

Nonfiction, Science & Nature, Science, Physics, Astronomy, General Physics
Cover of the book Astronomy in the Ancient World by Alexus McLeod, Springer International Publishing
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Alexus McLeod ISBN: 9783319236001
Publisher: Springer International Publishing Publication: June 17, 2016
Imprint: Springer Language: English
Author: Alexus McLeod
ISBN: 9783319236001
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Publication: June 17, 2016
Imprint: Springer
Language: English

Alexus McLeod explores every aspect of the lesser-known history of astronomy in the Americas (Mesoamerica and North America), China and India, each through the frame of a particular astronomical phenomena. Part One considers the development of astronomy in the Americas as a response, in part, to the Supernova of 1054, which may have led to a cultural renaissance in astronomy. He then goes on to explore the contemporary understanding of supernovae, contrasting it with that of the ancient Americas. Part Two is framed through the appearances of great comets, which had major divinatory significance in early China. The author discusses the advancement of observational astronomy in China, its influence on politics and its role in the survival or failure of empires. Furthermore, the contemporary understanding of comets is also discussed for comparison. Part Three, on India, considers the magnificent observatories of the Rajput king Jai Singh II, and the question of their purpose. The origins of Indian astronomy are examined in Vedic thought and its development is followed through the period of Jai Singh, including the role played by solar eclipses. The author also includes a modern explanation of our understanding of eclipses to date. In the final section of the book, McLeod discusses how ancient traditions might help modern civilization better understand Earth’s place in the cosmos.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Alexus McLeod explores every aspect of the lesser-known history of astronomy in the Americas (Mesoamerica and North America), China and India, each through the frame of a particular astronomical phenomena. Part One considers the development of astronomy in the Americas as a response, in part, to the Supernova of 1054, which may have led to a cultural renaissance in astronomy. He then goes on to explore the contemporary understanding of supernovae, contrasting it with that of the ancient Americas. Part Two is framed through the appearances of great comets, which had major divinatory significance in early China. The author discusses the advancement of observational astronomy in China, its influence on politics and its role in the survival or failure of empires. Furthermore, the contemporary understanding of comets is also discussed for comparison. Part Three, on India, considers the magnificent observatories of the Rajput king Jai Singh II, and the question of their purpose. The origins of Indian astronomy are examined in Vedic thought and its development is followed through the period of Jai Singh, including the role played by solar eclipses. The author also includes a modern explanation of our understanding of eclipses to date. In the final section of the book, McLeod discusses how ancient traditions might help modern civilization better understand Earth’s place in the cosmos.

More books from Springer International Publishing

Cover of the book Transaction Cost Management by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Symmetry and Symmetry-Breaking in Semiconductors by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Through-life Engineering Services by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book I William Zartman: A Pioneer in Conflict Management and Area Studies by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Clinical Research Involving Pulmonary Disorders by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Digital Government by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Water as an Inescapable Risk by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book A Design for a Reusable Water-Based Spacecraft Known as the Spacecoach by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Tactile Display for Virtual 3D Shape Rendering by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book The Geopolitics of Renewables by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Pathology of the Cervix by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Ethnic Conflict in Developing Societies by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Linear Algebra for Computational Sciences and Engineering by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Inverse Problems and Applications by Alexus McLeod
Cover of the book Energy Transmission and Synchronization in Complex Networks by Alexus McLeod
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy