A history of Western astronomical almanacs
Abstract
Astronomical data were the basis for calendars, time, phenomena predictions, and theories about the universe from the earliest days. Knowledge developed independently in different countries and then was exchanged when international trading developed. There was an apparent lack of development of knowledge during the middle ages. Then at the reformation period a new increase in theories, observations, and knowledge developed. The advent of the printing press brought the availability of almanacs in large numbers for everyday use. The requirements of calendars, navigation, and astronomical information led to national almanacs and improved accuracies. The need for standards for reference systems, including ephemerides, time scales, astronomical constants, and star catalogs led to international cooperation. New technologies, computers, and the space age led to improved accuracies and new reference systems. Calculators and computers led to new methods of access to almanac data, including data online.
- Publication:
-
Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage
- Pub Date:
- April 2019
- Bibcode:
- 2019JAHH...22...93S
- Keywords:
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- almanacs;
- ephemerides;
- calendars;
- cultures BC;
- astronomical phenomena;
- celestial navigation;
- national almanac offices;
- astronomical history.