Scientists have revealed the secret of ancient Maya predictions

A recent study has revealed how the Maya used lunar cycles to predict solar eclipses using an ancient table discovered in the Dresden Codex. This table, dating back to the 11th–12th centuries, is an important tool that helps to understand how the ancient Maya civilization used astronomical observations to predict solar eclipses. This was reported by Science Advances magazine on October 22.

The authors of the study concluded that the Maya used unique methods to predict solar eclipses by creating complex tables that included important information about lunar cycles and solar eclipses. Based on their analysis, scientists have determined how the Maya created accurate astronomical predictions using a 260-day calendar and recording important lunar phases.

According to the publication, the Maya used tables in which a 405-month cycle was a key element in predicting solar eclipses. By studying the arrangement of the diagrams, the researchers concluded that they were based on an older table that used the lunar months to make predictions. The structure of the table was unique and made it possible to effectively take into account the features of solar eclipses, determining the most accurate forecasts.

One of the main discoveries was that the Maya table used so-called "nodes", which could later help in adapting the tables to account for changes in eclipse cycles. It turned out that instead of re-reading the calculations after completing the cycle, the Maya created so-called overlapping tables.

It is emphasized that each new one of these tables began 223 or 358 months before the end of the previous one. Thanks to this, the Maya priests corrected errors and maintained the accuracy of predictions for over 700 years. These details confirm that the Maya developed sophisticated astronomical analysis techniques that allowed them to accurately predict important events such as solar eclipses.

Earlier, on October 16, Science X magazine reported the discovery of the rarest Maya monument underwater in Belize — a residential complex. It was noted that the object was completely preserved in the peat deposits of the mangrove lagoon. The researchers claim that this discovery helps to understand how the ancient inhabitants of Central America mined and processed salt.

All important news is available in the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger