In Episode 31 of Ancient Code, Modern Mind, host Harsh Rain dives into Aryabhata’s sophisticated methods for predicting eclipse circumstances in the Golapāda of the Aryabhatiya. Following Episode 30’s revelation of eclipses as shadow-based phenomena, this episode outlines the conditions for eclipses: alignment at New Moon (Sphuṭaśaśimāsānta) or Full Moon (Pakṣānta) and proximity to lunar nodes (Pātāsanna). It explores calculating the mid-eclipse time (Grahaṇamadhyam), adjusted for parallax (Lambana), and determining the Earth’s umbral shadow dimensions—length (Bhūcchāyādīrghatvam) and diameter (Tamaso Viṣkambha) at the Moon’s distance—using similar triangles. These calculations, rooted in Aryabhata’s earlier parameters for celestial sizes and distances, set the stage for predicting eclipse duration and magnitude. The episode connects these ancient methods to modern eclipse prediction and space mission design, highlighting Aryabhata’s geometric precision. Engaging and technical, it transforms eclipses into calculable cosmic events.
Key Words:
Aryabhata, Golapāda, eclipse calculations, shadow geometry, Sphuṭaśaśimāsānta, Pakṣānta, lunar nodes, Pātāsanna, mid-eclipse, Grahaṇamadhyam, parallax, Lambana, Earth’s shadow, Bhūcchāyādīrghatvam, Tamaso Viṣkambha, similar triangles, astronomy, ancient India, eclipse prediction, space exploration, geometric modeling.
Disclosures:
This podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes and reflects interpretations of historical texts. Listeners are encouraged to consult primary sources and scholarly works for further study.
Pronunciations of Sanskrit terms are approximations for accessibility and may vary across regional traditions.
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