Astronomical Masterpieces is an encyclopedia of astronomy and mathematics, which was compiled by the Greek astronomer Ptolemy around 140. Until the beginning of17th century, it was the basic guide for Arab and European astronomers. The original name of the book means (Zhida) in Arabic, and other names include (great paper), (great astronomer) and (anthology of mathematics). It was translated into Arabic in 827 and from Arabic to Latin in the second half of12nd century.
The first volume is an overview of ptolemaic system.
The second volume contains the oldest trigonometry in existence: the table of chord values with an interval of half a degree and an accuracy of five digits, and the method of solving spherical triangles.
The third volume discusses the movement of the sun and the length of a year;
The fourth volume discusses the sun and the moon;
In the fifth volume, in addition to the problems in the fourth volume, the distance between the sun and the moon is also discussed, and how to make an astrolabe is introduced.
The sixth volume discusses solar eclipse and planetary collision.
Volumes 7 and 8 mainly discuss stars. According to the Hipparchus catalog, the ecliptic coordinates and magnitude of 1 0,022 stars are listed, and precession and the making of celestial instruments are also mentioned.
The remaining five volumes elaborate on ptolemaic system outlined in the first volume.
Astronomical achievements mainly have the following inspirations:
1. deepen the understanding of the origin of the universe and the earth: the development of astronomy has made people have a deeper understanding of the origin of the universe and the earth, thus deepening their understanding of mankind itself.
2. Emphasize diversity and openness: astronomy is a multidisciplinary science, and its development needs cooperation in different fields. Therefore, the development of astronomy emphasizes diversity and openness.
3. Highlight the role of science and technology: astronomy needs to rely on high-tech equipment and technical means, such as telescopes and astronomical satellites. Therefore, astronomy highlights the important role of science and technology and technological innovation.
4. Necessity of education and popularization: Astronomy is a highly popular subject, so education and popularization also play an important role in astronomy. Through the education and popularization of astronomy, more people can understand the universe and the earth, and then better protect and use them.
Generally speaking, the development of astronomy has great enlightenment to mankind, which emphasizes pluralism, openness, science and technology, education and popularization, and these views are also helpful to promote the development of human society.