MAYAN ASTRONOMY

Topic 5

CHARENE MAE M. COLMO

3 BSE major in Science
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Content Standards
Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the Mayans' contributions to
astronomy, including their sophisticated calendar systems, astronomical structures, and
methods for observing celestial events. They will explore the integration of these
practices into Mayan culture and their impact on later civilizations.

Performance Standards
Students will be able to describe the key features and functions of Mayan calendar
systems (Tzolk'in, Haab', Long Count) and their significance to Mayan society, Analyze
the purpose and design of significant Mayan astronomical structures (e.g., El Caracol,
Temple of Kukulkan) and explain how these alignments with celestial events
demonstrate advanced astronomical knowledge, Compare and Contrast Mayan
astronomical practices with those of other early civilizations, identifying key similarities
and differences in methods and cultural implications, and Evaluate the impact and
legacy of Mayan astronomical achievements on modern astronomy and historical
studies, reflecting on their accuracy and influence.

Learning Competencies/Objectives
Understand the contributions of the Maya to the field of astronomy, including their
calendar systems, astronomical structures, and observations of celestial events.
Specific Objectives
1. Identify and describe the key features of the Mayan calendar systems,
including the Tzolk'in, Haab', and Long Count, and explain their roles in
Mayan society.
2. Analyze the function and significance of major Mayan astronomical
structures, such as El Caracol and the Temple of Kukulkan, in relation to
their alignment with celestial events.
3. Compare Mayan astronomical practices with those of other ancient
civilizations, highlighting both similarities and differences in their methods
and cultural implications
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Introduction

The ancient Maya civilization, flourishing in Mesoamerica between 2000 BCE

and 1500 CE, was renowned for its sophisticated understanding of astronomy. Unlike
many other ancient cultures, the Maya developed a complex and accurate system for
observing and predicting celestial phenomena, which played a central role in their daily
lives, religion, and governance.

Mayan astronomers meticulously tracked the movements of the sun, moon,

planets, and stars, often integrating their observations into an intricate calendar system
that governed agricultural cycles, religious rituals, and even political decisions. The
Maya believed that celestial events were manifestations of the will of the gods, and their
knowledge of the heavens was both a scientific endeavor and a spiritual practice. This
blend of science and spirituality is evident in their elaborate architecture, such as the
alignment of temples and pyramids with celestial events like solstices and equinoxes.

Mayan astronomy is not only a testament to their intellectual achievements but

also provides insight into how they perceived the universe and their place within it.
Today, the legacy of Mayan astronomy continues to fascinate scholars and enthusiasts
alike, offering a window into the advanced scientific and cultural practices of one of
history's most remarkable civilizations.

Considering how integral astronomy was to the Maya, how do you think their
understanding of the cosmos influenced their daily life and cultural practices? What
parallels can we draw between their worldview and the ways in which modern societies
use scientific knowledge today?
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Activity 1: Guess What?

Let's start by reviewing what we've learned about the history of astronomy from
different cultures.

Instructions:

Fill in the blanks with the correct names or groups based on the descriptions provided.
Think back to the previous lessons we've had on the history of astronomy.For example,
consider who developed the geocentric model of the universe or who made
advancements in celestial navigation.

1. _____________-developed the geocentric model of the universe and made

significant advances in understanding planetary motions and celestial
phenomena, notably through the works of Ptolemy and Copernicus.

2. _____________- Indian astronomers like Aryabhata and Brahmagupta made

advances in understanding the motions of celestial bodies, developed the
concept of zero in mathematical calculations, and introduced the heliocentric
model centuries before it became widely accepted.

3. ____________-developed accurate star catalogs, and introduced important

astronomical instruments like the astrolabe. They also made significant
contributions to trigonometry and celestial navigation.

4. ___________-recorded celestial events such as eclipses and comets, developed

a detailed lunar calendar, and created astronomical charts that influenced later
astronomical practices in East Asia

Now that we've recalled some key figures and contributions from the history of
astronomy, let's shift our focus to a specific culture that made significant contributions:
the Mayans!
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Activity 2: Identify Me!

We're going to start by looking at some images related to Mayan astronomy. Your task
is to identify what you think each image represents and describe any details that stand
out to you.

Instructions:

1. Carefully observe each image provided.

2. Write down what you believe each image represents. Include any specific details
you notice, such as shapes, patterns, or symbols.
3. Don't worry if you're unsure—just describe what you see and what you think it
might be.

Now that you've had a chance to observe and describe these images, we're going to dig
deeper into understanding them.
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Activity 3: Label the Structure

In this activity, you'll take the images you just analyzed and practice identifying and
labeling key features of Mayan astronomical structures and artifacts.

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing Materials

● I'll provide each of you with a sheet of paper and a set of small pictures of Mayan
structures and artifacts.

Step 2: Cutting and Arranging

● Cut out the pictures and arrange them on your paper in a way that makes sense
to you.

Step 3: Labeling and Describing

● Next, label each picture with its correct name. For example, you might label one
'El Caracol' or 'Tzolk'in calendar'.
● Write a brief note (1-2 sentences) next to each picture about its function or
significance in Mayan astronomy

Once you're finished, we'll discuss how these key elements fit into the larger picture of
Mayan astronomy.Think about how these structures and artifacts were used by the
Mayans to understand the cosmos.
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DID YOU KNOW?

The Maya were skilled astronomers with a profound understanding of celestial
movements, which they integrated into their culture and daily life. Their advanced
astronomical knowledge is reflected in their calendar systems, such as the Tzolk'in and
Haab', which guided religious ceremonies, agricultural practices, and civic events.
Structures like El Caracol and the Temple of Kukulkan at Chichen Itza illustrate the
Maya’s ability to align architecture with celestial phenomena, demonstrating their
sophisticated observation techniques and deep connection with the cosmos.

How did the Maya use their advanced understanding of astronomy to influence their
religious practices, agricultural activities, and architectural design? Let’s explore the
details of their calendar systems and key astronomical structures to see how these
elements were interconnected.

Tzolk'in and Haab' Calendars

Tzolk'in Calendar

Structure: The Tzolk'in is a 260-day calendar used by the Maya. It consists of 20 day
signs (e.g., Jaguar, Monkey, Sun) and 13 numbers, creating a cycle of 260 unique days.

Purpose: This calendar was primarily used for religious and ceremonial purposes. It
tracked sacred and ritual events, agricultural cycles, and was integral to Mayan
divination and prophecy.
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Usage: Each day had a specific meaning, and the combination of day signs and
numbers helped determine the timing of rituals and important activities. For example,
certain days were considered more auspicious for particular ceremonies.

Haab' Calendar:

Structure: The Haab' is a 365-day solar calendar divided into 18 months of 20 days
each, plus a short month of 5 days called Wayeb’. Each month had a specific name
(e.g., Pop, Wo, K’an).

Purpose: This calendar tracked the solar year and was used to plan agricultural
activities, such as planting and harvesting. It was also used to schedule civic and
ceremonial events.

Usage: The alignment of the Haab' calendar with the solar year helped the Maya
manage their agricultural cycle effectively. The Wayeb' period was considered a time of
transition and reflection.
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El Caracol and Temple of Kukulkan

1. El Caracol:
● Significance: El Caracol, or "The Snail," is a Mayan observatory located in
Chichen Itza. It features a circular tower with windows aligned to specific
celestial events.
● Alignments: The windows of El Caracol are aligned to significant
astronomical events such as the solstices, equinoxes, and the movements
of Venus. The Maya used this structure to track these events and make
astronomical observations.
● Usage: The observatory played a key role in recording and predicting
celestial events, which were important for agricultural and ceremonial
purposes.
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2. Temple of Kukulkan:

● Significance: The Temple of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo, is a

pyramid structure also located in Chichen Itza. It is famous for its
architectural alignment with astronomical events.
● Alignments: During the equinoxes, the setting sun casts a shadow that
resembles a serpent descending the pyramid’s steps. This alignment
demonstrates the Maya’s advanced understanding of solar movements.
● Usage: The temple was used for both ceremonial purposes and to mark
significant solar events. It reflected the Maya’s intricate knowledge of
astronomy and its integration into their architecture and rituals
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Activity 6: Solve ME
Solve the Astronomical Problem

In this activity, you'll apply what you've learned about Mayan astronomy to solve
practical problems, just like the ancient Mayans did.

Instructions:
1. Carefully read through each scenario on your handout.

2. For Scenario 1: Imagine you are a Mayan priest planning a significant ritual.
Using the Tzolk'in calendar, identify which day would be most auspicious for the
ceremony and explain why you chose that day.

3. For Scenario 2: Pretend you are a farmer using the Haab’ calendar to plan your
planting season. Determine the best time to plant corn and explain how you used
the calendar to make your decision.

After you’ve solved the scenarios, we’ll come together as a class to discuss your
answers. Be ready to explain your reasoning and how the Mayans might have
approached these challenges.
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ASSESSMENT

1. What is the primary purpose of the Tzolk'in calendar?

A) To track agricultural seasons
B) To plan religious and ceremonial events
C) To measure solar years
D) To record historical events

2. Which Mayan structure is known for its alignment with celestial events like the
solstices and equinoxes?
A) Temple of Kukulkan
B) El Caracol
C) The Observatory of Chichen Itza
D) The Pyramid of the Sun

3. How many days are there in a complete cycle of the Haab' calendar?
A) 260 days
B) 365 days
C) 180 days
D) 300 days

4. During which period did the Maya consider the Wayeb’ to be a time of transition
and reflection?
A) At the start of the Tzolk'in calendar
B) During the short month of 5 days in the Haab' calendar
C) During the equinoxes
D) At the end of the solar year

5. What feature of the Temple of Kukulkan is most notable during the equinoxes?
A) The shadow of a serpent descending the steps
B) The alignment with the North Star
C) The reflection of sunlight on the temple’s surface
D) The visibility of the Milky Way.
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ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

Advance Study to Modern Astronomy.

SUMMARY
The Maya demonstrated remarkable astronomical expertise through their intricate
calendar systems and architectural alignments. The Tzolk'in calendar, with its 260-day
cycle, was crucial for religious ceremonies and divination, while the Haab' calendar,
spanning 365 days, organized agricultural and civic activities. Their observatories, such
as El Caracol, were used to track celestial events like solstices and Venus cycles, aiding
in accurate predictions. The Temple of Kukulkan’s alignment with solar events during
equinoxes reflects their deep understanding of solar movements. Collectively, these
elements reveal how the Maya seamlessly integrated their astronomical knowledge into
both their everyday practices and monumental architecture, showcasing their
sophisticated grasp of the cosmos.
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ANSWER KEY

Activity 1: Guess What?

Answer Key:

1. Ptolemy and Copernicus - Developed the geocentric model of the universe and
made significant advances in understanding planetary motions and celestial
phenomena.

2. Indian Astronomers (Aryabhata and Brahmagupta) - Made advances in

understanding the motions of celestial bodies, developed the concept of zero in
mathematical calculations, and introduced the heliocentric model centuries
before it became widely accepted.

3. Islamic Astronomers - Developed accurate star catalogs, and introduced

important astronomical instruments like the astrolabe. They also made significant
contributions to trigonometry and celestial navigation.

4. Chinese Astronomers - Recorded celestial events such as eclipses and comets,

developed a detailed lunar calendar, and created astronomical charts that
influenced later astronomical practices in East Asia.

Activity 2: Identify Me!

Answer Key(In any Order)

1. El Caracol: An ancient Mayan observatory in Chichen Itza used to track the

movements of Venus and other celestial bodies.

2. Tzolk'in Calendar: A 260-day calendar used by the Mayans for ceremonial and
agricultural purposes.

3. Haab' Calendar: A 365-day solar calendar used for agricultural planning.

4. Mayan Codices: Ancient books that contain Mayan astronomical data, including
predictions of solar eclipses and the cycles of Venus

Activity 3: Label the Structure

Answer Key:
1. El Caracol:Label: El Caracol
Function/Significance: An observatory used by Mayans to track celestial bodies,
particularly Venus.

2. Tzolk'in Calendar:
Label: Tzolk'in Calendar
Function/Significance: A 260-day calendar used for ritual and ceremonial
purposes.
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3. Haab' Calendar:
Label: Haab' Calendar
Function/Significance: A 365-day solar calendar used to organize the agricultural
year.

4. Mayan Codices:
Label: Mayan Codices
Function/Significance: Books that contain astronomical knowledge and
predictions.

Activity 6: Solve Me

Scenario 1
Answer Key:

Scenario 1 (Tzolk'in Calendar):

● Most Auspicious Day: Students should select a day associated with a deity or
event that is significant in Mayan culture. For example, a day associated with the
god of maize might be chosen for a harvest ceremony.
● Explanation: "This day is considered auspicious because it is associated with
[specific deity/event], which is important for the ritual being planned.

Scenario 2
Answer Key:

Scenario 2 (Haab’ Calendar):

● Best Time for Planting Corn: Typically, the best time to plant would align with the
beginning of the rainy season, which the Haab' calendar helps predict.
● Explanation: "Using the Haab' calendar, the best time to plant corn is when the
rainy season begins, ensuring that the crops receive sufficient water to grow."
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REFERENCES

Tzolk'in and Haab' Calendars Overview (Mesoamerican Calendars) - World History

Encyclopedia.

El Caracol and Temple of Kukulkan - Encyclopaedia Britannica.