The Venus Tablet of Ammisaduqa is an ancient clay tablet discovered in the 19th century in Iraq, dating back to the reign of King Ammisaduqa of Babylon in the 17th century BCE. It is one of the earliest known astronomical tablets that provide detailed astronomical observations and predictions.
This tablet, also known as the Enuma Anu Enlil Tablet 63, contains records of observations of the planet Venus over a span of 21 years. It specifically documents the first and last visible appearances of Venus above the horizon before sunrise or after sunset. These observations were made by priests and scribes who closely monitored celestial events as they were considered important omens for the Babylonians.
Due to its astronomical significance, the Venus Tablet of Ammisaduqa is an invaluable source for studying ancient Mesopotamian civilization, their understanding of celestial bodies, and the development of early astronomy. It provides insights into their mathematical calculations and the establishment of calendars based on astronomical events.
The tablet is written in cuneiform script, using the Babylonian number system and specific astronomical terms. It consists of multiple columns and lines of text, which record the dates, positions, and movements of Venus, along with other celestial events such as eclipses and meteor showers.
Since its discovery, the Venus Tablet of Ammisaduqa has been studied extensively by astronomers and scholars to gain a deeper understanding of ancient astronomy and the worldview of the Babylonians.
