The Equation of Time in Mediaeval Astronomy: A Survey of Tables and Practices

Liste des Contributions

1. The Equation of Time in Mediaeval Astronomy: A Survey of Tables and Practices

M. Stefan Zieme (EIDA-LTE-Observatoire de Paris)

In mediaeval mathematical astronomy, the positions of the planets and luminaries, as well as eclipse predictions, were calculated using sets of astronomical tables. The defining principle of this approach is the use of tables of mean motions. This requires the tacit assumption of a mean solar day, which is always of the same length, regardless of the season or epoch. A solar day is defined as...