THE FIRST STARGAZERS: An Introduction to the Origins of Astronomy

New York: Scribner's, 1982. 1st Printing. Hardcover. New/Very Good. B&W maps, charts, drawings and photos. Condition: PLEASE READ - UNREAD, but not quite perfect, 1982 Scribner's hardcover and DJ (in mylar jacket), first printing. Problem is top DJ edge: edge wear with small nic spine top. Interior perfect. B&W photos, charts, & drawings illustrate Content: Around the world, from the moors of northern Europe to the jungles of south Asia to the deserts of the American Southwest, the scattered ruins of ancient civilizations remain to tantalize us with memories of former glories, prehistoric accomplishments, and forgotten sciences. Was astronomy one of these lost sciences? Did priest-observers once stand atop these now crumbling towers to watch the slow turning of the stars? Archaeoastronomy, a modern discipline combining astronomy and archaeology, attemps to describe the astronomical knowledge of ancient peoples through the study of unwritten records they left behind in these stone ruins. This book covers Stonehenge, Angkor Wat, Chaco Canyon, the Aztecs and Mayas. NOTE: While more work has been done in this field since 1982, this is one of the first books for general consumption on Archeoastronomy. It is still worth the read, IMHO.