Ever since the beginning of time there have been stars....

Ever since the beginning of time there have been stars. Not only stars in the sky, but moons, planets, and even galaxies! Astronomy is defined as the branch of science that deals with celestial objects, space, and the physical universe as a whole. In other words it is the study of space, planets, and stars. Throughout the ages, many people have used astronomy to help them learn about the universe, our own planet, and even make predictions about life itself. Understanding astronomy means understanding where it originated, the different groups/cultures that used it, and modern purposes of the science of the stars. Where did astronomy originate? According to the Department of Astronomy, the earliest people to keep astronomical records where†¦show more content†¦According to research done by the National University of Singapore the pyramids are only 3/60 of a degree off of true south. Another group contributing to the science of astronomy were the Chinese. The Chinese have been observing the sky for several thousand years. They are the oldest civilization with a continuous astronomical record. They have many amazing records, one including the first documented solar eclipse (over 4,000 years ago in 2,136 B.C.) They also recorded the first planetary grouping in 500 B.C. Planetary grouping is the planets separated into two groups. The inner and outer planets. This was a major accomplishment on the Chinese’s part because this led to the discovery of the planets rotation and positions. (Which turned into planetary science) The Polynesians were also an important group to astronomy. They were among the first people to navigate oceans. They used the stars to guide them, while the sun allowed them to keep track of their days. To navigate by using the stars you use celestial navigation. According to an article by Amy VanHaren, you use the angles between stars and the horizon to locate your position on the globe. To do this you use the Big Dipper and Cassiopeia. (The Big Dipper is shaped like a ladle with a long handle and a rectangular head, while the Cassiopeia is a constellation of five stars that makeShow MoreRelatedConspiracy Theories: Moon Landing Essay1292 Words   |  6 PagesConspiracy theories have been around since the beginning of time. When NASA sent the first landed on the moon, there are people who believed that NASA faked the moon landings. Men, such as Bill Kaysing, the Flat Earth Society, and Davie Groves, and Bart Sibrel, have written books, delivered lectures, and made videos about w hy they believed NASA faked the moon landings. Based on their observations which include no stars in their pictures, NASAs drive to beat the Russians to the moon, and a way to distractRead MoreHow Man Can Invent Life Changing Inventions Essay1688 Words   |  7 Pagesmore questions arise such as: When did it begin? Where did it begin? Why did it begin? 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