The Antikythera Mechanism is the oldest known complex scientific calculator

The Antikythera mechanism is an ancient mechanical computer designed to calculate astronomical positions. It was recovered in 1900–1901 from the Antikythera wreck. Its significance and complexity were not understood until decades later. Its time of construction is now estimated between 150 and 100 BC. Technological artifacts of similar complexity and workmanship did not reappear until the 14th century, when mechanical astronomical clocks were built in Europe.

Jacques Cousteau visited the wreck for the last time in 1978, but found no additional remains of the Antikythera mechanism. Professor Michael Edmunds of Cardiff University who led the most recent study of the mechanism said: “This device is just extraordinary, the only thing of its kind. The design is beautiful, the astronomy is exactly right. The way the mechanics are designed just makes your jaw drop. Whoever has done this has done it extremely carefully … in terms of historic and scarcity value, I have to regard this mechanism as being more valuable than the Mona Lisa.”

I’ve been thinking quite a bit about lost knowledge lately. Whether it’s ancient writing systems, folk stories, arranged boulders, or old TV shows thrown out to make space for new ones, we sometimes destroy the things we know. Not sure where I’m going with it yet. It’s not another KYM though. If anything, I’m still thinking about the opposite direction.

The link in the title takes you to the Research Project site. Also, the Wikipedia article is kind of an exciting read if you’re a nerd like me.