What Methods Are Used in Astronomical Retro-Calculation?

[lewis198]

Can someone please tell me the methods used in astronomical retro-calculation?

I have put posts up about the n body problem, lunar perturbations, and Ptolemy's eclipses, but I need to know explicitly the methods used to determine, for example, whether or not a Babylonian tablet is reliable based on its astronomical observations.
Essentially you would rewind a model of the solar system (including the moon for ancient lunar observations) to the BC date, and compare the coordinates to the observations given on the tablet.
But what theories exist for that? The n body problem can at best be approximated, and approximations of solar system coordinates based on circular orbits, like the former, would diverge over long periods of time.

I desperately ask again:

What are the methods used in astronomical retro-calculation?

 

[lippyka]

The main method used in astronomical retro-calculation is the use of numerical simulations. These simulations involve taking the current positions of the planets and other celestial bodies, as well as their initial conditions (velocities, masses, etc.), and using a computer to 'rewind' the simulation back in time to the desired date. By doing this, it is possible to accurately calculate the positions of all celestial bodies at a certain point in time in the past. This method is also used for predicting future positions of celestial bodies as well. Additionally, astronomers often make use of various analytical models, such as Ptolemy's eclipses, lunar perturbations, and the n-body problem, when attempting to retro-calculate the positions of celestial bodies in the past.

 

[sir-pinski]

The methods used in astronomical retro-calculation vary depending on the specific problem being addressed and the available data. However, some common techniques include numerical simulations, mathematical modeling, and statistical analysis.

Numerical simulations involve using computer programs to calculate the positions and movements of celestial objects based on known physical laws and initial conditions. These simulations can be used to recreate the positions of the planets and other celestial bodies at a specific time in the past and compare them to historical observations.

Mathematical modeling involves creating equations and formulas that describe the behavior of celestial bodies and using them to calculate their positions in the past. This can be done using various mathematical techniques such as differential equations and calculus.

Statistical analysis is another important method used in astronomical retro-calculation. This involves analyzing large datasets of astronomical observations and using statistical methods to determine trends and patterns. This can help identify any discrepancies or errors in the observations and refine the calculations.

In addition to these methods, astronomers also rely on historical records and data from ancient civilizations to validate their retro-calculation. For example, Babylonian tablets containing astronomical observations can be compared to modern calculations to determine their accuracy and reliability.

Overall, astronomical retro-calculation involves a combination of mathematical, computational, and historical methods to determine the positions and movements of celestial objects in the past.