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The motion of the stars calculated by the Hindus before…

“The motion of the stars calculated by the Hindus before some 4500 years vary not even a single minute from the tables of Cassine and Meyer (used in the 19-th century). The Indian tables give the same annual variation of the moon as the discovered by Tycho Brahe - a variation unknown to the school…” quote by Jean Sylvain Bailly
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“The motion of the stars calculated by the Hindus before some 4500 years vary not even a single minute from the tables of Cassine and Meyer (used in the 19-th century). The Indian tables give the same annual variation of the moon as the discovered by Tycho Brahe - a variation unknown to the school of Alexandria and also to the Arabs who followed the calculations of the school ... The Hindu systems of astronomy are by far the oldest and that from which the Egyptians, Greek, Romans and - even the Jews derived from the Hindus their knowledge.”

Jean Sylvain Bailly

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Ancient Indian astronomers accurately predicted celestial motions long before modern tables, showing sophisticated knowledge that predated many later cultures.

In simple terms: Ancient Indian astronomy was highly accurate and influential.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and study early scientific achievements.

Themes

science history astronomy cross‑cultural influence

Mood

curious respectful

Type

historical informative

When to use this quote

  • educational curricula
  • museum exhibits
  • academic research
  • cultural heritage projects

Key Concepts

celestial mechanics knowledge transmission historical astronomy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How did these ancient methods compare to later ones?
  • What can we learn from their observational techniques?
A Different Perspective

Modern reconstructions may lack original data sources, limiting verification.

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