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Mound J, Monte Albán: Possible Astronomical Orientation

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 January 2017

Anthony F. Aveni  and
Robert M. Linsley
Anthony F. Aveni
Affiliation:
Department of Physics & Astronomy and Department of GeologyColgate University
Robert M. Linsley
Affiliation:
Department of Physics & Astronomy and Department of GeologyColgate University
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Abstract

Mound J, Monte Albán, a building of peculiar orientation and shape, has been mapped and tested for astronomical orientation. At the time of construction of the building, a line perpendicular to the base of the steps of J would have pointed to the rising position of the bright star Capella, which rose heliacally on one of the days of solar zenith passage. We note the existence of a possible zenith sighting tube built into the steps of building r which lies in the line of sight. A second coincidence is discussed in which 5 of the 25 brightest stars are found to have set close to the azimuth of the "point" of the building at the time it was erected.

Type
Reports
Information
American Antiquity , Volume 37 , Issue 4 , October 1972 , pp. 528 - 531
Copyright
Copyright © Society for American Archaeology 1972

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