Ptolemaic system. Illustration of the Ptolemaic universe, an attempt at modelling the motions of heavenly bodies, being carried by Atlas. Earth is dra
Ptolemaic system. Illustration of the Ptolemaic universe, an attempt at modelling the motions of heavenly bodies, being carried by Atlas. Earth is drawn at the centre, surrounded by circles which represent crystal spheres. The Sun, planets and stars revolved in circles within different spheres which in turn revolve around the Earth in circular orbits. Based on earlier astronomers' work, the theory was finally completed by Ptolemy in the 2nd century AD in his Almagest. It was translated into Latin in about 1160 AD and was the basis of astronomy until challenged by Copernicus. In Greek mythology, Atlas was a god who was condemned to carry forever the Earth and heavens on his back. Engraver unknown. First published in book in comments line
Size: 2422px × 3507px
Photo credit: © Science Photo Library / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: almagest, artwork, astronomy, atlas, carrying, earth-centred, god, historical, history, motions, planetary, ptolemaic, ptolemy, science, solar, system, universe, world
