What does paleoastronomy mean?

Ancient astronomy is a subject that studies astronomical knowledge and culture such as ancient human and celestial movements, starry sky changes and astronomical phenomena. It contains many branches, such as ancient astronomy, astronomical calendar, astronomical instruments and ancient philosophy of the universe. This subject mainly focuses on human cognition and understanding of the universe, and has a far-reaching impact on human culture, history, customs and religion.

Ancient astronomy played an important role in the development of ancient humans. Humans began to observe the sun, moon, stars and other celestial bodies in ancient times, and used these observation results to make calendars, farming and religious ceremonies. Astronomers in ancient times were comprehensive scholars who needed extensive knowledge and skills, including mathematics, astronomy, calendar, divination, medicine and so on. By studying and exploring the universe, they promoted the progress of human civilization.

Now, ancient astronomy has become a subject to study ancient calendars, cosmic philosophy, astronomical characters and other knowledge. Its research method can be academic analysis and interpretation of ancient documents, institutional records and archaeological remains. It can also be an experimental observation that imitates ancient astronomical instruments. The in-depth study of ancient astronomy can not only help us understand the history and culture of ancient humans, but also have an impact and enlightenment on modern astronomy, providing reference and help for future scientific research.