Indian Astronomy (a source book)

by B. V. Subbarayappa | 1985 | 203,062 words

Summary: This book explores the extensive tradition of astronomy in India, presenting nearly 3000 verses from various original Sanskrit texts, translated into English with notes and tables. The book seeks to elucidate the scientific methodologies, instruments, and mathematical procedures developed by Indian astronomers, emphasizing their commitment to precision and observational accuracy. Contrary to the perception of Indian astronomy as largely speculative, the source material highlights the detailed and systematic approach taken by ancient astronomers, fostering a reevaluation of its scientific significance.

Source 1: exoticindiaart.com
Source 2: archive.org

Contents of this online book ( + / - )

The full text of the Indian Astronomy (a source book) in English is available here and publically accesible (free to read online). Of course, I would always recommend buying the book so you get the latest edition. You can see all this book’s content by visiting the pages in the below index:

Warning! This document has not been proofread. However, for each page you can (and should) verify the text with the original source PDF file.

Abstract

Foreword

+ Introduction

. Part 1 - Introduction to ancient Indian Astronomy

. Part 2 - Indian Astronomers (from the 5th-19th century)

. Part 3 - Main conceptual aspects of Indian astronomy

. Part 4 - Precession of equinoxes

. Part 5 - Eclipses, Rahu and Ketu

. Part 6 - Trigonometrical aspects (of Indian astronomy)

. Part 7 - Instruments (in Indian astronomy)

. Part 8 - The Eras (in Indian astronomy)