Mayan Cosmos (now booking!)
Adelaide Planetarium
School of Physics,
Chemistry and Earth Sciences,
College of Science, Adelaide University.
Abstract: The Mayans were a prominent indigenous Mesoamerican civilisation renowned for their advanced writing, mathematics, astronomy, and monumental architecture. Their view of the Cosmos was a rich and interconnected view of the universe that explained how the heavens, Earth, and the underworld were linked. The ancient Maya believed the universe was divided into three main realms: the sky above, the earthly world where people lived, and the underworld known as Xibalba. These realms were connected by the sacred World Tree, which symbolised the connection between gods, humans, and natural world. The movements of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars were seen as important messages from the gods, influencing farming, ceremonies, and daily life. This in-depth understanding of the Cosmos shaped Mayan religion, architecture, calendars, and scientific observations. In this talk I will introduce you to what we know about their cosmogony and their view of the night sky. This session will also include the full dome movie ‘Mayan Archaeoastronomy: Observers of the Universe’. Please note: no admission to under 16-years of age due to use of adult language (16-18 years must be accompanied by full paid adult).
Bio: Paul Curnow (B.Ed) is an award-winning astronomer, teacher, and author. He is regarded as Australia's leading specialist on Australian Aboriginal constellations and star names. Moreover, Paul runs several popular courses for the public that focus on the constellations, planetary astronomy, meteoritics, historical astronomy and ethnoastronomy, which primarily deals with how the night sky is seen by non-western cultures. He has lectured both overseas and in Australia and worked for the Adelaide Planetarium for the past 34-years.
Important notes:
Please arrive 15-20-mins prior to session commencement to register and be seated comfortably. For safety reasons, entry after the session has begun and re-entry are not permitted.
Parking in P6 carpark or along University Boulevard, is free of charge on weekends.
NO food or drink is permitted inside the Planetarium.
BOOK ONLINE HERE.
FOR GENERAL ENQUIRIES OR FURTHER INFORMATION
Contact Name: Allison Price
Company Name: Adelaide Planetarium
Telephone: (08) 8302 3138
Email: [email protected]
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:

















