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The Antikythera Mechanism Explained with Dr. Tony Freeth

Event Horizon・40 minutes read

Dr. Tony Frith's research focuses on analyzing the Antikythera mechanism, an ancient astronomical device discovered in 1900 by Greek divers that likely simplified trigonometric calculations for predicting astronomical events. The mechanism's intricate gear system and inscriptions indicate it was a luxury object used by skilled mathematicians and craftsmen for accurate astronomical calculations, showcasing an innovative era in ancient technology.

Insights

  • The Antikythera mechanism, discovered in 1900, was initially misinterpreted as a navigation tool but was later identified by Albert Reem as an astronomical device, with a significant lunar cycle calculation discovered by Derek de Solla Price.
  • The mechanism, with 69 gears and inscriptions predicting eclipses using Greek symbols, represents a luxury object likely crafted by skilled individuals, showcasing ancient Greek expertise in astronomy and trigonometry.

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Recent questions

  • What is the Antikythera mechanism?

    An ancient astronomical device discovered in 1900.

  • Who discovered the Antikythera mechanism?

    Greek sponge divers in 1900.

  • What is the purpose of the Antikythera mechanism?

    To calculate astronomical events like lunar eclipses.

  • How many gears are in the Antikythera mechanism?

    69 gears.

  • What did the Return to Antikythera Project discover?

    Modern items like lead anchor weights and spear.

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Summary

00:00

Antikythera Mechanism: Unraveling Ancient Astronomical Mystery

  • Dr. Tony Frith, a mathematician, is a key figure in the Antikythera mechanism research project.
  • The Antikythera mechanism, a significant archaeological find, was discovered by Greek sponge divers in 1900.
  • The wreck site contained valuable bronze sculptures and artifacts, including a mysterious lump with tiny gear wheels.
  • Initial interpretations of the mechanism as a navigation instrument or astrolabe were incorrect.
  • German philologist Albert Reem made insightful discoveries about the mechanism, identifying it as an astronomical device.
  • Derek de Solla Price, a physicist, conducted the first x-ray study of the mechanism, revealing intricate gear systems.
  • Price's tooth counts were mostly inaccurate, but he discovered a significant lunar cycle calculation within the mechanism.
  • A new investigation in 2005 involved high-resolution 3D x-ray studies and surface examination of inscriptions on the fragments.
  • The project faced challenges in obtaining permissions and funding, but ultimately yielded valuable data on the mechanism's mechanical structure.
  • Dr. Tony Frith's role in the investigation focused on analyzing the mechanical aspects of the Antikythera mechanism.

17:56

Antikythera Mechanism: Ancient Eclipse Prediction Device

  • The Babylonians introduced the Sarah cycle, a 223 lunar month cycle predicting eclipses every 18 years, repeating for centuries.
  • Albert Reem discovered the number 223 in fragment 19, relating to eclipse predictions on the mechanism.
  • The mechanism had a scale with four terms predicting eclipses, with Greek letters and symbols representing eclipse predictions.
  • Sigma represented Selene, the moon goddess, while an atter symbol stood for Helios, the sun god, indicating lunar and solar eclipse predictions.
  • The mechanism is incomplete, with archaeological work ongoing at the wreck since 1901, yielding artifacts like bronze statues and coins from 86 BC.
  • The Return to Antikythera Project in recent years used modern technology to find items like lead anchor weights and spear, but major missing parts of the mechanism are unlikely to be discovered.
  • The mechanism's gears calculated the moon's variable motion through the zodiac, accounting for its elliptical orbit and various cycles, including the anomalistic cycle.
  • Cicero's historical texts mention devices made by Archimedes and Posidonius resembling the Antikythera mechanism, suggesting a tradition of such devices.
  • Speculation arises on the mechanism's origin, possibly copying Archimedes' designs, requiring skilled craftsmen to create its intricate gears and inscriptions.
  • The mechanism's complexity, with 69 gears and extensive inscriptions, indicates it was a luxury object, likely used for astronomical purposes by skilled mathematicians and craftsmen.

35:17

Ancient Greek Antikythera Mechanism: Astronomical Prediction Device

  • The Antikythera mechanism is a prediction device designed to calculate astronomical events like lunar eclipses.
  • It showcases variable motions of astronomical bodies, including the moon and planets, using epicyclic gears and pin and slot devices.
  • Michael Wright discovered the intricate gear system for calculating the moon's variable motion, incorporating eccentric axes for accuracy.
  • The mechanism's large gear calculates the eclipse cycle, demonstrating a remarkable achievement in ancient technology.
  • Collaborative research has led to a working model of the planetary system within the mechanism, with ongoing efforts to complete it.
  • Despite Michael Wright's functional model, there are discrepancies in its accuracy compared to the evidence.
  • The Antikythera mechanism represents an innovative era in ancient technology, potentially influencing advancements like mechanical clocks.
  • The ancient Greeks' focus on astronomy limited their exploration of mathematical calculating machines and other technological advancements.
  • The Romans, while innovative in building technology, did not foresee technological progress as we do today, leading to lost knowledge over time.
  • The Antikythera mechanism's primary purpose may have been to simplify trigonometric calculations for astronomical predictions, showcasing ancient Greek knowledge of trigonometry.
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