Learn About Mayan Astronomy and Peer Through Telescopes

Maritza De Armas/Contributing Writer

When the word “Mayan” is brought up many would think of the viral rumor that the world would end in 2012, according to the Mayan calendar.

Since we all survived, an upcoming FIU event seeks to educate on the advanced astronomy of the Mayan civilization.

The Mayans, an indigenous people of Mexico and Central America, were a Mesoamerican civilization that were known to be ahead of their time.

They establish a sophisticated and highly developed writing system, known as logosyllabic script, and are also known for their art, architecture, mathematics, calendar and astronomical system.

FIU physics professor James Webb will be hosting a lecture on Friday, Nov. 8 from 8 to 11 p.m. in the Chemistry and Physics building in room 145 to talk about Mayan astronomy.

Webb plans on teaching how the Mayans were able to predict eclipses and how they followed the motion of the stars without the use of modern technology.

After the lecture, weather permitting, Webb plans on taking attendees to the FIU AstroScience Center’s observatory to get a view of the night sky through telescopes.

Webb claims that Jupiter and Saturn looks very beautiful during this time of the year and hopes it would entice people to come get a look.

Webb draws inspiration for his lectures from his childhood. He hopes to spread knowledge to those who are interested in attending his lectures series.

“When I was growing up, I used to watch Carl Sagan on the Cosmos on CBS. I want to give the general public an opportunity to learn and not stay stuck in the ivory tower,” said Webb.

Webb’s lecture series on Mayan Astronomy is open to both students and the general public.

His only requirements for attendees is that they learn and have fun.

For those who are unable to attend the lecture but are still interested in learning more about astronomy, the AstroScience Center opens the observatory every Saturday night, weather permitting, to give all students an opportunity to view the night sky through telescopes.

For more information about this event, visit https://calendar.fiu.edu/event/mayan_astronomy#.Xbp3HNV7lPY.