Pinpointing the zodiac: on developments in accuracy in ancient mathematical astronomy

This project entails the first ever systematic, historical investigation of the accuracy of astronomical computations through different periods and cultures of the ancient world after the introduction of the zodiac, in particular Babylonia, Greece, Rome and Egypt from ca. 450 BCE to ca. 300 CE. Its aim is to diachronically evaluate regional differences and developments in accuracy and to relate these to innovations in astrological, computational and observational practices. Thus, the accuracy of astronomical computations is used as a diagnostic tool for studying the development and the cross-cultural dissemination of astronomical and astrological practices across the ancient world.