A study published in the magazine Science Advances details how Mayan astronomers were able to predict solar eclipses with an error of just a few hours between the years 350 and 1150 AD. survived colonial destruction. Accuracy was achieved through a table of 405 lunar months with periodic adjustments to the cycle.
The method allowed automatic corrections of deviations accumulated over the centuries. The Mayans recorded observations on bark paper and used the knowledge for religious and agricultural purposes.
Dresden code holds the calculation key
The 78-page document contains detailed astronomical tables. Ele is one of four authentic Mayan codices that escaped the burning promoted by Inquisição Espanhola in the 16th century.
Mais sobre o assunto: Dresden Codex onthult Maya-methode die zonsverduisteringen ruim 800 jaar lang corrigeerde zonder telescopen
Researchers identified that the Mayans restarted the cycle in the 358th lunar month instead of completing 405 months. Essa practice prevented the accumulation of alignment errors between Sol and Lua.
223 month adjustment corrected deviations
Scientists John Justeson and Justin Lowry verified the functioning of the table. In some cases, the reset occurred in the 223rd lunar month.
This point happened about 10 hours and 10 minutes later than expected. The correction maintained the accuracy of predictions for generations.
Accuracy verified over a period of eight centuries
The table was used continuously between the 4th and 12th centuries. The maximum error was restricted to a few hours in relation to the exact moment of the eclipses.
- Complete cycle: 405 lunar months
- Default reset: 358th month
- Alternate restart: 223rd month for fine-tuning
- Validity period: 350 to 1150 AD
- Average deviation: a few hours
Integration between astronomy and Mayan calendar
The records combined the 260-day calendar (Tzolkin) with the 365-day calendar (Haab). The overlap generated the 52-year-old Calendário Redondo.
Cobertura completa: News (EN)
Eclipse predictions were used to plan religious ceremonies. Sacrifícios were performed during total eclipses to ensure the renewal of Sol.
Method overcame technological limitations of the time
The Mayans did not have telescopes or optical instruments. Observations were made with the naked eye in stone observatories.
The technique demonstrated advanced mastery of mathematics and lunar cycles. Knowledge was passed down by specialized scribes over centuries.
Discovery reinforces Mayan scientific sophistication
The study proves that pre-Columbian people achieved accuracy comparable to early modern astronomy. The table worked as a continuous correction algorithm.
Acompanhe: tudo sobre Dresden Codex
Future research should examine other surviving codice fragments. Novos data can reveal more details about the complete astronomical system.