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Uses of Ancient Data in Modern Astronomy

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 April 2016

J A. Eddy
J A. Eddy*
Affiliation:
National Center for Atmospheric Research, Boulder, CO, 80307, USA

Abstract

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Ancient astronomical data are a limited resource that can fill unique needs in modern research. Records from the Orient are of particular value because they were taken more or less continuously, as parts of dynastic and local histories – often for astrological purposes. We review three problems in modern astronomy that lean heavily on ancient records from the Middle East and Orient: the study of solar variability; studies of the variable rotation of the earth; and studies of the occurrence and physics of novae, supernovae and comets.

Type
Mediaeval Astronomy
Information
International Astronomical Union Colloquium , Volume 91: History of Oriental Astronomy , 1987 , pp. 254 - 260
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1987

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