Archaeoastronomical methodology to study skeletons' orientations (original) (raw)

2014

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this paper we present the methodology for the study of the skeletons’ orientation. By determining the Northern axis and the long axis of the skeleton (head-spin-legs), we can calculate the azimuth measured from North in a counter-clockwise direction. Accurate measurements (azimuth) are important for obtaining more accurate, precise skeletons’ alignments. These detailed measurements, along with other important information about the skeleton and grave, we collect in a database of the cemetery. In order to show some specific measurements, we will attach images of skeletons with established axis extracted from our database. The last phase would be the data processing, where we calculate the distribution of the skeletons for our orientation study. Accurate measurements of the horizon and of the skeletons are important for determining the accurate solar arc, and the exact position of the skeletons around the solar arc. Using this methodology one can establish if the population in the cemetery had practised the solar cult. It would be very useful, when we had an aerial image of the cemetery with the skeletons and their established axis.

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