Jan 31, 2016
A discussion of the motions of the planets in the night sky and some of the cultural associations that go with them. Observations such as retrograde motion, maximum elongation, conjunction and opposition are examined.
Jan 24, 2016
In this episode we discuss the astronomy of the early dynastic period of China including the Xia, Shang and Zhou dynasties. Specific attention is paid the the idea of the Mandate of Heaven and its relation to circumpolar astronomy.
Jan 17, 2016
An examination of the motion of the Sun through the sky. We discuss the use of gnomons to make measurements and the Sun's path through the Zodiac on the ecliptic with special attention to the equinoxes and solstices. We conclude with an discussion of the yearly calendar in many cultures.
Jan 10, 2016
This episode focuses on the practice of ancient Egyptian astronomy and its relationship to the culture's religion and agriculture. Particular attention is paid to the motions of Sirius, the Great Pyramid at Giza, the "Stretching the Cord" ceremony and the association of the pharaohs with the Sun and heavens.
Jan 3, 2016
In this episode we consider observations of the moon and the role it has in keeping time and representing resurrection in the heavens. Defined are both sidereal and synodic months and well as lunar calendar years.