Australian Indigenous Astronomy: from Science to Apocalypse and Beyond
Abstract: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people maintain ancient systems of knowledge about the Sun, Moon and stars that stretch back well over tens of millennia. This knowledge contains a wealth of empirical science and information about natural events and hazards, sometimes describing apocalyptic events that significantly altered the landscape and environment, which has been passed down through oral tradition. In this lecture, we will explore the ways Indigenous astronomy is challenging the history and philosophy of science, how it is leading to new advances in astrophysics, how it is helping us better understand natural hazards and climate change, and how we can move forward through collaborations between Elders and scientists and those who walk in both worlds.
Date: 17 January 2023, 12-13 pm
Venue: University of Cologne, SSC Building, Language Lab IV