October 16, 2024
Scientists have found the oldest known evidence of a solar eclipse in the Rig Veda, the earliest, oldest and biggest book amongst all the four Vedas. Researchers found mentions of a total solar eclipse that took place nearly 6,000 years back in the text, reflecting how ancient civilisations perceived celestial phenomena. Researchers managed to date the occurrence of the solar eclipse based on the position of the vernal equinox. According to researchers’ analysis, the two dates when the eclipse could have occurred are October 22, 4202 BC and October 19, 3811 BC, which are older than other known records of the phenomenon.
DID YOU KNOW?
A solar eclipse takes place when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, casting a shadow on the Earth. This can only happen during a new moon.
