Ancient Astronomy

Stonehenge & Archeoastronomy

Greek/Roman Era (ca. 0)
“Dark Ages” (ca. 1000 AD)
 Discussion Question:
• Stonehenge is a remarkable site. What
makes it so interesting?
• What astronomical alignments are found at
stonehenge? Describe them.
• Do the astronomical alignments imply the
builders knew more than we do; is there
lost or mystical knowledge involved?
 Stonehenge
• SW England
• Built in 3 stages:
• 3100 BC
– Ditch/embankment
• 2500 BC
– Bluestones
• 2300 BC
– trilithons
Solstice alignments: sun & moon
How precise is “aligned”?