The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Astronomer's name deciphered from ancient Mayan ruins for first time

Astronomer's name deciphered from ancient Mayan ruins for first time

Summary

Archaeologists have decoded ancient mural symbols to reveal the name of a Mayan astronomer and mathematician for the first time. The name "White-chested Fox" was found on murals dating from 400 BC to 900 AD at a site on the Mexico-Guatemala border, alongside mathematical and astronomical formulas.

Key Facts

  • The name discovered is "White-chested Fox," from the Mayan language.
  • The murals were found at the San Bartolo-Xultun site near the Mexico-Guatemala border.
  • The murals date from between 400 BC and 900 AD, during the Maya Classic period.
  • Researchers found a complete mathematical and astronomical formula credited to this individual.
  • Over 50 small mathematical and astronomical texts on the wall were analyzed to make this discovery.
  • Eleven hieroglyphs were deciphered using digital enhancement of photos and scans.
  • The Maya civilization declined around 900 AD and was later impacted by Spanish conquest.
  • Recent advances like laser scanning from planes help archaeologists find and study Maya ruins in dense jungle areas.
Read the Full Article

This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.