Part 5/10:
With a grasp on the Earth’s dimensions, further measurements led to determining distances beyond. The next logical step was measuring the distance from Earth to the Moon, achievable through the process of lunar eclipses. By calculating how long the Moon remained in Earth’s shadow and cross-referencing lunar monthly cycles, early astronomers like Aristarchus successfully estimated the Moon’s distance at roughly 60 Earth radii.
Interestingly, the ancients used simple ratios of time and distance to approximate celestial distances, all without modern technologies. Their methods reveal a profound understanding of geometry and observation, providing insights into the relationship between the Earth, Moon, and even the Sun.