test In the dawn of civilization, humanity was deeply fascinated by and reliant on the starry sky above. As early as ancient times, civilizations worldwide endeavored to make simple astronomical observations and records using star charts and celestial instruments that combined practicality with beauty. These artifacts were imbued with significance for agriculture and rituals, reflecting the early understanding of the cosmos: mysterious and vast, generous yet awe-inspiring. While they served practical purposes in daily life, they were also intricately linked to the transcendent realms of religion and myth.
在文明诞生的初期,人类对头顶的那片星空产生了极大的痴迷与依赖。早在公元前,世界各地的古文明都尝试用星盘、星图等兼具实用性和观赏性的仪器与手稿进行简单的天文观测和记录。这些工艺品被赋予了耕种、祭祀等实际意义。同时,他们也反映出当时人们对宇宙的初步认知:它神秘而广袤,慷慨却又令人敬畏。虽可以被实际运用于生产生计,却又和宗教、神话等脱离世俗的产物紧密结合。
在文明诞生的初期,人类对头顶的那片星空产生了极大的痴迷与依赖。早在公元前,世界各地的古文明都尝试用星盘、星图等兼具实用性和观赏性的仪器与手稿进行简单的天文观测和记录。这些工艺品被赋予了耕种、祭祀等实际意义。同时,他们也反映出当时人们对宇宙的初步认知:它神秘而广袤,慷慨却又令人敬畏。虽可以被实际运用于生产生计,却又和宗教、神话等脱离世俗的产物紧密结合。
Nebra Sky Disk
内布拉星象盘 Bronze and gold, 1600 BC Unkonwn This artifact from around 1600 BCE, dating back to the Bronze Age, offers a glimpse into the astronomical knowledge of prehistoric Europe. The Nebra Sky Disk, crafted from bronze and inlaid with gold, measures approximately 30 centimeters in diameter. It stands as one of the earliest known visual representations of the cosmos, symbolizing humanity's ancient relationship with the stars and the universe. 这是一件约公元前 1600 年的青铜时代文物,是欧洲史前时期对天文学知识的一种表达。内布拉星象盘直径约 30 厘米,青铜制成,上面镶嵌黄金。 |
Dunhuang Star Chart
敦煌星图 Ink on paper, 700 BC Unknown |
This ancient star map was unearthed in Dunhuang, China, and intricately depicts the positions of various constellations and asterisms, reflecting the meticulous sky observations and understanding of ancient Chinese people. It not only showcases the accomplishments of Chinese scientists in astronomical observation and recording but also holds significant cultural and historical value. As a vital part of China’s astronomical heritage, this star map stands as a testament to the depth of ancient Chinese contributions to the study of the cosmos.
这张古代星图出土于中国敦煌。星图上详细描绘了各个星座和星官的位置,反映了中国古代人们对天空的观察和理解。它不仅展示了中国古代科学家在天文观测和记录方面的成就,也具有重要的文化和历史价值,是中国古代天文学的重要遗产。 |
Neo-Assyrian Planisphere 新亚述星座图 Clay,650 BC Unknown This is one of the oldest star maps in the world, illustrating the early astronomical understanding of the Sumerians. Using cuneiform script, they depicted the constellations and celestial phenomena known at the time. These astronomical records allowed the Sumerians to develop agricultural calendars and perform religious rituals, demonstrating the vital role of astronomy in shaping their daily life and spiritual practices. 这是世界上最古老的星图之一,展示了苏美尔人对天文学的初步理解。人们用楔形文字描绘了当时已知的星座和天文现象。通过这些天文记录,苏美尔人能够制定农业活动的时间表,并进行宗教仪式。 |
Zodiac of Dendera 丹德拉十二宫图 Sandstone, 50 BC Unknown This star chart, located on the ceiling of the Temple of Dendera, showcases the ancient Egyptians’ understanding of astronomy. The constellations and celestial symbols are arranged in a circular pattern, reflecting their unique approach to combining astronomical knowledge with religion and mythology. This piece highlights the deep connection between cosmic observation and spiritual belief in ancient Egypt. 这幅古埃及的星象图,位于丹德拉神庙的天花板上。图中以圆形排列的星座和天体符号显示了古埃及人对天文学的理解,反映了古埃及人将天文学与宗教和神话相结合的独特方式。 |