Star Based Navigation in Antiquity and Prehistory (I. part)

摘要

The first part of the article considers the use of stars for navigation during classical antiquity. With numerous quotations of poets, mithographers and geographers from classical antiquity I try to prove validity of my central thesis: that stars were commonly used in night sailing for orientation and navigation. I also mention the most important stars and constellations used for navigation, especially Ursa Major and Minor. Also, I give quotations that describe which part of the year was considered favourable for sailing in that historical period. This was also calculated with observing risings and settings of some stars.