Babylonian astronomy

High school (ages 12+)
Space & Astronomy

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/babylonian-astronomy

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the field of study?Ancient Mesopotamian astronomy, characterized by empirical observation and mathematical modeling
2. What is the primary source material?Fragmentary clay tablets including astronomical diaries, ephemerides, and procedure texts

Sexagesimal System: A base-60 numeral system that facilitated complex astronomical calculations and divisions of time and angles.
Empirical Approach: A scientific methodology prioritizing systematic observation, data collection, and logical analysis over theoretical speculation.
Ephemerides: Tables or charts that record the calculated positions of celestial bodies for specific times.
Chaldeans: A term used by classical writers to refer to Babylonian priest-scribes specializing in astronomy and divination.