Chinese astronomy

Chinese astronomy, one of the world's oldest traditions, developed independently with a focus on celestial observation and astrology. Ancient Chinese astronomers meticulously charted planets, stars, and the Milky Way, creating detailed star maps and calendars. They identified key constellations, many of which differ from Western ones, and linked celestial events to political and agricultural cycles. Notable innovations include the invention of the armillary sphere and early advances in eclipse prediction. Chinese astronomy played a crucial role in governance, timekeeping, and cultural practices, reflecting a deep connection between the cosmos and human life rooted in centuries of dedicated observation and scholarly tradition.