Before 1500
Ancient worlds, enduring ideas.
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History doesn’t stand still.
MOMENTS FROM THIS ERA
2 illustrated stories · growing dailyMeet the moments.
Science & discoveriesThe Chinese guest-star observation of 4 July 1054
A Chinese court observation dated 4 July 1054 describes a brilliant guest star near Tianguan. Modern astronomy connects the transient light with the supernova whose expanding remains form the Crab Nebula.
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Science & discoveriesThe total solar eclipse of 19 July 418 and its historical record
A total solar eclipse on 19 July 418 darkened part of the late Roman world. An ancient account reports visible stars and an unusual luminous object, creating a case in which a calculable astronomical event must be distinguished from interpretations of a historical text.
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