Epicycles of Moons orbit, 1708

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Epicycles of Moons orbit, 1708

Epicycles of Moons orbit. This is plate 18 from the 1708 edition of the star atlas Harmonica Macrocosmica by the Dutch-German mathematician and cosmographer Andreas Cellarius (1596-1665). It shows eight epicycles for the Moons orbit round the Earth. Epicycles were mathematical constructs used to explain geocentric orbits before heliocentric models simplified the calculations. Insets (lower right and left) show the crescent, new and full Moon. Harmonica Macrocosmica, first published in 1660, had 30 colour plates with Latin text. This edition was published in Amsterdam by Petrus Schenk and Gerard Valk

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Media ID 9221381

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1600s 1660 1700s 1708 1708 Edition 17th Century 18th Century Andreas Cellarius Celestial Mechanics Constellations Cosmogonical Cosmogony Cosmography Cosmological Cosmology Crescent Dutch Full Geocentric German Half Harmonica Macrocosmica Latin Text Lunar Moon Orbit Orbital Mechanics Orbits Quarter Schenk Star Atlas Universe Valk Zodiac Zodiacal Plate 18

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate and complex epicycles of the Moon's orbit around Earth, as depicted in plate 18 of Andreas Cellarius' renowned star atlas Harmonica Macrocosmica. Created by the Dutch-German mathematician and cosmographer in 1708, this illustration offers a glimpse into the historical understanding of celestial mechanics during the 17th century. Before heliocentric models revolutionized astronomical calculations, epicycles served as mathematical tools to explain geocentric orbits. The eight meticulously drawn epicycles elegantly demonstrate how these constructs were employed to comprehend lunar motion within our universe. The lower right and left insets provide additional details on different lunar phases - crescent, new, and full Moon - adding further depth to this remarkable artwork. Published first in 1660 with Latin text accompanying its thirty color plates, Harmonica Macrocosmica remains an invaluable piece of scientific history. This particular edition was published by Petrus Schenk and Gerard Valk in Amsterdam. It not only highlights humanity's quest for knowledge about space but also reflects the significant advancements made over time in our understanding of cosmology. As we gaze upon this mesmerizing image from centuries past, we are reminded of how far we have come in unraveling the mysteries of our cosmos through constant exploration and scientific inquiry.

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