historical astronomy

Historical astronomy is the study of how ancient cultures understood and observed celestial phenomena, such as stars, planets, and eclipses. Civilizations like the Babylonians, Greeks, and Mayans developed calendars and navigation techniques based on their observations of the night sky. They identified constellations and crafted myths around them, linking astronomy to agriculture and religious practices. Notable figures like Ptolemy and Copernicus shaped our understanding of the cosmos, transitioning from geocentric (Earth-centered) to heliocentric (Sun-centered) models. This rich history laid the groundwork for modern astronomy, influencing how we explore and comprehend the universe today.