Stonehenge Quadrangle, Solstice and Lunistice, Sun and Full Moon

Stonehenge Quadrangle, Solstice and Lunistice, Sun and Full Moon

Amelia Carolina Sparavigna

Polytechnic University of Turin - Department of Applied Science and Technology

Date Written: November 21, 2024

Abstract

Here we discuss the orientation of the megalithic Quadrangle of Stonehenge, created by its four Station Stones. Stimulated by the recent proposal made by Timothy Darvill of a solar calendar embedded in the monumental sarsen stones, we investigate a possible role of the moon. At the same time, we invite the reader to use software to simulate the behavior of the moon, regarding lunistices (lunar standstills) and lunar phases. Thanks to software, we can appreciate how the full moon, rising and setting along the long side of the Quadrangle in the case of major lunistices, is heralding the solstice. The Metonic cycle could also be considered as involved in the solar calendar proposed by Darvill.

Sparavigna, Amelia Carolina, Stonehenge Quadrangle, Solstice and Lunistice, Sun and Full Moon (November 21, 2024). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=5023173 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.5023173