A Simplified Replica of the Antikythera Mechanism as a Tool to Astronomy Teaching
Wilson Guerra
Program on Science and Mathematics Education (PCM/UEM), State University of Maringá, Av. Colomlo, 5790, Maringá, Brazil.
Marcos Cesar Danhoni Neves
*
Program on Science and Mathematics Education (PCM/UEM), State University of Maringá, Av. Colomlo, 5790, Maringá, Brazil.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The Antikythera Mechanism is a machine made up of bronze gears capable of predicting celestial positions, moon phases, eclipses and calculating calendars. Its construction is estimated to be 205 BCE. Studies on the functioning of the mechanism revealed great technical sophistication. From the principle of operation of the Antikythera Mechanism, a simplified didactic replica of the device was developed to be used as an educational instrument.
Keywords: Antikythera mechanism, astronomy, astronomy teaching