Saturday, 24 June 2023

Indian astronomy refers to astronomy practiced in the Indian subcontinent. It has a long history stretching from pre-historic to modern times. Some of the earliest roots of Indian astronomy can be dated to the period of Indus Valley Civilization or earlier.

Indian astronomy refers to astronomy practiced in the Indian subcontinent. It has a long history stretching from pre-historic to modern times. Some of the earliest roots of Indian astronomy can be dated to the period of Indus Valley Civilization or earlier.

The earliest known Indian astronomical texts are the Vedanga Jyotisha, which are a collection of astronomical and astrological texts that are part of the Vedas. These texts date back to the 2nd millennium BCE and contain information on the solar and lunar calendars, the movements of the planets, and the stars.

In the early centuries CE, Indian astronomy was influenced by Greek astronomy. This led to the development of new astronomical theories and instruments. Some of the most important Indian astronomers of this period include Aryabhata I, Brahmagupta, and Bhaskara II.

Aryabhata I was born in 476 CE in Ashmaka, India. He was one of the most important mathematicians and astronomers in Indian history. He made several important contributions to astronomy, including the development of a heliocentric model of the solar system, the calculation of the Earth's circumference, and the introduction of the concept of zero.

Brahmagupta was born in 598 CE in Bhinmal, India. He was a prolific writer and produced several important works on mathematics and astronomy. He is best known for his Brahmasphutasiddhanta, which is a treatise on astronomy and mathematics.

Bhaskara II was born in 1114 CE in Bijapur, India. He was one of the most important astronomers in Indian history. He made several important contributions to astronomy, including the development of a trigonometric table, the calculation of the lunar and solar eclipses, and the introduction of the concept of differential calculus.

Indian astronomy continued to develop in the later centuries, and it made important contributions to the development of astronomy in the Islamic world and Europe. Today, Indian astronomy is a thriving field of study, and it continues to make important contributions to our understanding of the universe.

Here are some of the key features of Indian astronomy:

  • It is a blend of observational astronomy and mathematical astronomy.
  • It is based on the belief that the universe is cyclical and that the stars and planets are controlled by divine forces.
  • It has a rich tradition of astronomical instruments, including the astrolabe, the armillary sphere, and the sundial.
  • It has made important contributions to the development of trigonometry, calculus, and mathematical astronomy.

Indian astronomy is a fascinating and complex field of study. It has a long and rich history, and it continues to make important contributions to our understanding of the universe.

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