The researchers have recently revealed the mystery of an ancient computer dating back to 60BC. The astronomical calculator was used in the Ancient Greece to make predictions about the future.
The world’s alleged first analog computer, called the Antikythera Mechanism, was designed almost 2000 years ago. The contraption was discovered in a wrecked ship off the Greek Island. The researchers have meticulously put together the pieces of this device using X-ray imaging technology. The use of the latest technology has revealed the inner working of the instrument.
The researchers had previously assumed that this astronomical calculator was employed by the Greek to keep a tab on the movement of the planets and stars for navigational purposes.
However, the study team has now deciphered the meaning of the broken inscriptions on the surface of the device revealing the astrological significance of the mechanism.
Professor Mike Edmunds, from the astrophysics department of the University of Cardiff, explained the findings of his team:
“We are not quite sure how to interpret [the inscriptions], but they could hark back to suggestions that the colour of an eclipse was some sort of omen or signal. Certain colours might be better for what’s coming than other colours. This is the first instance we have in the mechanism of any real mention of astrology rather than astronomy.”
The Antikythera Mechanism is an intricate mesh of more than 30 gears made out of bronze. The clockwork mechanism had been designed by the Greek scientists during 150 and 100BC. It is astonishing because the researchers had previously assumed that this technology had not been invented for almost 1000 years after.
The Antikythera Mechanism is being kept at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens for research purposes.