The Antikythera Mechanism - Talk by Dr Vassilios Spathopoulos
Schedule
Thu, 18 Dec, 2025 at 07:30 pm
UTC+00:00Location
University of Strathclyde Faculty of Engineering | Glasgow, SC
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The Antikythera Mechanism - Talk by Dr Vassilios SpathopoulosTime:
7.30 PM lecture starts
Date:
Thursday 18 December 2025
Location:
Room 6.41, James Weir Building (Old Royal College), University of Strathclyde.
Entrance off Montrose Street, Glasgow.
Speaker:
Dr Vassilios Spathopoulos, science educator, aerospace engineer, PhD in aerospace engineering.
Synopsis:
This presentation explores the history and function of the Antikythera mechanism, a sophisticated bronze device discovered in a shipwreck off the Greek island of Antikythera in 1901. Widely regarded as the world's first analogue computer, this ancient artifact dates back to the second century BC and originally contained a complex system of over 30 gears. The talk will examine how the mechanism was used to predict the positions of the sun, moon, and planets, as well as to track eclipse cycles and the timing of the ancient Olympic Games. Furthermore, it will discuss how modern imaging technologies have revealed the device's intricate internal workings and inscriptions, demonstrating a level of engineering capability that was not replicated for more than a millennium.
Biography:
Dr Vassilios Spathopoulos is a Greek-Scottish aerospace engineer who holds a PhD in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Glasgow. As a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, he actively participates in science outreach initiatives, delivering engaging presentations on astronomy at science festivals and educational institutions. His contributions to public understanding of science extend to authorship, having published works in popular science and engineering for general audiences. Currently, Dr Spathopoulos teaches at Glasgow International College while also presenting introductory astronomy courses to adult learners through the Edinburgh Council Adult Education and Outlook programs.
Dr Spathopoulos's website: https://www.mysciencewalks.com/short-bio.html
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Where is it happening?
University of Strathclyde Faculty of Engineering, Glasgow, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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