Antikythera mechanism

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Antikythera mechanism

The Antikythera mechanism is an ancient Greek analog computer and orrery used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses for calendar and astrological purposes decades in advance. It was discovered in 1901 in the Antikythera shipwreck off the coast of the Greek island Antikythera, between Kythera and Crete. The device, housed in a wooden frame, is dated to have been created around the late second century BC.

Description

The Antikythera mechanism is composed of at least 30 meshing bronze gears. The largest gear, often referred to as the main gear, is approximately 140 millimeters in diameter and has 223 teeth. The device is operated by turning a hand-crank, which in turn moves the gears and simulates the motion of the Sun, Moon, and possibly the planets.

Functionality

The mechanism is believed to have been used to predict solar eclipses and lunar eclipses based on the Saros cycle. It also tracked the Metonic cycle, a period of 19 years after which the phases of the moon repeat on the same days of the year. Additionally, it could have been used to track the Olympiad cycle, the four-year period between the Olympic Games.

Discovery and Analysis

The Antikythera mechanism was discovered in 1901 by sponge divers off the coast of Antikythera. It was found among the remains of a shipwreck that dates back to the first century BC. The device was heavily corroded and fragmented, but subsequent analysis using X-ray and CT scanning has revealed much about its internal structure and function.

Significance

The Antikythera mechanism is considered one of the most significant technological artifacts from the ancient world. It demonstrates the advanced understanding of astronomy and mechanical engineering possessed by the ancient Greeks. The complexity of the device was not matched until the development of astronomical clocks in medieval Europe.

Related Pages

• Analog computer
• Orrery
• Astronomical clock
• Ancient Greek technology
• Antikythera shipwreck
• Saros cycle
• Metonic cycle
• Olympiad cycle