Antikythera Device: Unveiling an Ancient Computing Marvel from 80 BC

[wolram]

http://www.mlahanas.de/Greeks/Kythera.htm

ts complexity is far in advance of that what was expected from a device that was build about 80 BC. The part found contains 32 gears. Its use of a Differential Gear to subtract the sidereal motion of the sun from that of the moon to produce the synodic month, the cycle of the phases of the moon, is remarkable and represents the first example of such gearing yet discovered. The full functions of the mechanism may never be known but it appears certain that it displayed the position of the Sun in the zodiac throughout the year as well as the phases of the moon. As such it can be considered as one of the first known computing devices. Price (1974) speculated that it may also have displayed the positions of the planets as well, thought the gearing required to do this is missing from the fragments that were recovered. “Planetaria” are considered have been also build by Archimedes and they also could be used for educational and research purposes.

This device has had me thinking on and off years, was it made 80 BC, i doubt it, it seems way
to advanced for that date.

 

[selfAdjoint]

This device has had me thinking on and off years, was it made 80 BC, i doubt it, it seems way
to advanced for that date.

I don't think it's too advanced. The teeth of the gearing are just triangles, which of course makes them a little inaccurate. In general we know almost nothing about Hellenistic technology. The writers whose works have survived were just not interested in such low-class stuff. Empty philosophizing and romantic fiction was much more to the scroll savers' taste.

 

[kerimek]

I am fascinated by the Antikythera Device and its advanced technological capabilities. The discovery of this ancient computing marvel challenges our understanding of the technological capabilities of civilizations in 80 BC. The use of differential gearing to accurately track the motion of the sun and moon is a remarkable feat and demonstrates a high level of knowledge and skill in mathematics and engineering.

While we may never fully understand the full functions and purpose of the Antikythera Device, it is clear that it was a highly sophisticated instrument that could have been used for astronomical and educational purposes. It is also possible that similar devices may have been created by other ancient civilizations, further expanding our understanding of their technological capabilities.

The discovery of the Antikythera Device serves as a reminder that our knowledge and understanding of history and ancient civilizations is constantly evolving, and that there may be many more technological marvels waiting to be uncovered. Further research and analysis of this device will undoubtedly provide valuable insights into the technological advancements of ancient societies and their impact on modern technology.