Antikythera Mechanism: The ancient 'computer' that simply shouldn't exist - BBC REEL
BBC Reel・5 minutes read
Sponge divers discovered the Antikythera mechanism 120 years ago, an ancient Greek calculating machine showcasing advanced scientific and technological innovations. Modern technology has unveiled new insights into the mechanism, inspiring researchers to construct a physical model using ancient Greek techniques to understand the non-linear development of technology.
Insights
- The Antikythera mechanism, discovered by sponge divers off the coast of Greece 120 years ago, is an ancient Greek device made of bronze gear wheels that accurately predicts celestial positions, showcasing a remarkable advancement in ancient scientific knowledge and technology.
- Utilizing modern technologies like 3D X-ray scanning, researchers have revealed hidden inscriptions and functions within the Antikythera mechanism, such as the ability to predict eclipses and lunar movements, inspiring a deeper exploration of ancient Greek engineering techniques and emphasizing the significance of tracing the nonlinear evolution of technology throughout history.
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Recent questions
What is the Antikythera mechanism?
The Antikythera mechanism is an ancient Greek calculating machine discovered in a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera in Greece 120 years ago. It uses bronze gear wheels to predict the positions of the sun, moon, and planets, showcasing a significant advancement in ancient science and technology.
How does the Antikythera mechanism work?
The Antikythera mechanism works by using precision bronze gear wheels to predict the positions of celestial bodies such as the sun, moon, and planets. It is a sophisticated ancient Greek calculating machine that showcases the advanced scientific knowledge of the time.
What modern technology has helped uncover new insights about the Antikythera mechanism?
Modern technology advancements, including 3D X-ray technology, have been instrumental in unveiling new insights into the Antikythera mechanism. These advancements have revealed hidden inscriptions and functionalities within the device, such as predicting eclipses and the moon's movements.
Why are researchers constructing a physical model of the Antikythera mechanism?
Researchers are constructing a physical model of the Antikythera mechanism to understand the ancient Greek techniques used in its creation. This project highlights the importance of understanding the history of technology and its non-linear development, as well as the significance of the Antikythera mechanism in ancient scientific advancements.
What significance does the Antikythera mechanism hold in the history of science and technology?
The Antikythera mechanism holds significant importance in the history of science and technology as it showcases the advanced knowledge and skills of ancient Greeks. Its precision gear wheels were used to predict celestial movements, highlighting the sophistication of ancient scientific instruments and their impact on the development of technology.
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Summary
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Ancient Greek Antikythera Mechanism: A Timeless Wonder
- 120 years ago, sponge divers discovered a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera in Greece, revealing a corroded lump that turned out to be the Antikythera mechanism, a sophisticated ancient Greek calculating machine with precision gear wheels.
- The Antikythera mechanism, now housed in a Greek museum, uses bronze gear wheels to predict the positions of the sun, moon, and planets, showcasing a significant advancement in ancient science and technology.
- Modern technology advancements, including 3D X-ray technology, have unveiled new insights into the mechanism, revealing hidden inscriptions and functionalities such as predicting eclipses and the moon's movements.
- Researchers, inspired by the Antikythera mechanism, are using ancient Greek techniques to construct a physical model of the device, highlighting the importance of understanding the history of technology and its non-linear development.
