In the shadow of the moon : the science, magic, and mystery of solar eclipses Cover Image

In the shadow of the moon : the science, magic, and mystery of solar eclipses / Anthony Aveni.

Summary:

In anticipation of solar eclipses visible in 2017 and 2024, an exploration of the scientific and cultural significance of this mesmerizing cosmic display. Since the first humans looked up and saw the sun swallowed by darkness, our species has been captivated by solar eclipses. Astronomer and anthropologist Anthony Aveni explains the history and culture surrounding solar eclipses, from prehistoric Stonehenge to Babylonian creation myths, to a confirmation of Einstein's theory of general relativity, to a spectacle that left New Yorkers in the moon's shadow, to future eclipses that will capture human imaginations. In one accessible and engaging read, Aveni explains the science behind the phenomenon, tracks eclipses across the ancient world, and examines the roles of solar eclipses in modern times to reveal the profound effects these cosmic events have had on human history. Colored by his own experiences-Aveni has witnessed eight total solar eclipses in his lifetime-his account of astronomy's most storied phenomenon will enthrall anyone who has looked up at the sky with wonder.

Record details

ISBN: 9780300223194
ISBN: 0300223196
Physical Description: xi, 312 pages : illustrations, maps ; 22 cm
Publisher: New Haven : Yale University Press, [2017].
Copyright: ©2017

Content descriptions

Bibliography, etc. Note:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 277-298) and index.

Formatted Contents Note:

An introduction to solar eclipses. Colossal celestial spectacles ; Watching people watching eclipses ; What you see and why you see it -- Eclipses in the ancient world. Eclipse computer Stonehenge ; Babylonian decryptions ; Greek science ; The Crucifixion darkness ; Ancient Chinese secrecy ; Maya prediction ; Aztec sacrifice -- Eclipses in the modern age. The rebirth of eclipse science in Islam and Europe ; The New England Eclipse of 1806 ; Expedition to Pike's Peak, 1878 ; New York's Central Park, 1925 -- Lessons from eclipses. The eclipse as cartographer and timekeeper ; Zoologists chasing shadows -- Personal eclipses. Eclipses in culture -- A confession.