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Ancient Astronomical Computer Decoded

Posted by samzenpus on from the consult-the-wheel dept.

slimjim8094 writes "A mechanical device from 150BC was found in a shipwreck. Upon examination with X-Rays, the device appeared to be a revolutionary computer used to calculate lunar cycles. This device "is technically more complex than any known for at least a millennium afterward." From the article "The hand-operated mechanism, presumably used in preparing calendars for planting and harvesting and fixing religious festivals, had at least 30, possibly 37, hand-cut bronze gear-wheels, the researchers said. A pin-and-slot device connecting two gear-wheels induced variations in the representation of lunar motions according to the Hipparchos model of the Moon's elliptical orbit around Earth."

2 of 233 comments (clear)

  1. That's why there's a Search button on Slashdot by kbob88 · · Score: -1, Redundant

    What do the editors think the Search function is for? How hard is it to type 'antikythera' in and hit Search? The dupes are out of control here. Jeez.

    I think I figured out how to get more stories accepted on Slashdot -- just re-submit stories from 4-7 days ago!
    1. Read Slashdot
    2. Re-Submit Stories
    3. ???
    4. Profit!

  2. But ... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1, Redundant

    Does it run linux?