Gerald Hawkins

Gerald Hawkins was an American astronomer and archaeologist known for studying ancient structures. In the 1960s, he analyzed the astronomical alignments of Stonehenge using computer technology, suggesting that its builders planned it with celestial events in mind, like solstices and lunar cycles. His work helped advance understanding of how early cultures might have used astronomy for calendar purposes or religious ceremonies. Hawkins’s methods combined scientific analysis with archaeology, revealing that ancient monuments could encode sophisticated astronomical knowledge. His contributions highlighted the importance of astronomy in ancient societies and inspired further research into how humans have historically observed and interpreted the skies.