Ancient Astronomy

Babylonians

The Babylonians, flourishing during the Seleucid Empire around 323–60 BCE, made remarkable contributions to the early history of astronomy. Their astronomers engaged in systematic observations and meticulous record-keeping of celestial phenomena. Using clay tablets, they documented the positions of the Moon, planets, and stars over extended periods, creating one of the earliest known records of astronomical observations. Through basic mathematical techniques, such as arithmetic and geometry, Babylonian astronomers developed a rudimentary understanding of the paths of planets, showcasing an early instance of mathematical astronomy. Furthermore, their sophisticated calendars, intricately tied to lunar phases, laid the foundation for agricultural and religious planning, influencing subsequent civilizations' calendar systems.

Egyptians

Ancient Egyptians, renowned for their architectural marvels, integrated astronomical knowledge into their structures. Notably, the pyramids and temples were meticulously aligned with celestial events. The Great Pyramid of Giza, for instance, displayed remarkable precision in its alignment with the cardinal points. The Egyptian calendar, crucial for agricultural planning, was based on the heliacal rising of Sirius—the brightest star in the night sky. This celestial event signaled the onset of the annual flooding of the Nile, a vital natural phenomenon enriching the soil for successful harvests.