A Standing Stone and its Possible Astronomical Alignment - Using Seasonal Shadow and Light Displays in the Neolithic

TL;DR

This paper explores a 4,000-year-old monolith at Gardom's Edge, analyzing its potential astronomical alignment through seasonal shadow and light displays, revealing insights into Neolithic understanding of solar movements.

Contribution

It presents a detailed analysis of the monolith's orientation as a possible ancient astronomical instrument, highlighting its significance in Neolithic ritual and knowledge.

Findings

The monolith's orientation aligns with solar positions during solstices.

Shadow and light patterns suggest intentional design for seasonal display.

Supports the idea of Neolithic astronomical awareness and ritual use.

Abstract

Sundials and gnomons pointing out dates and times are a beautiful reminder of how we understand the movement of the Sun and use it to structure day and year. They also encapsulate the basic astronomical knowledge and concepts of the individuals and therefore their societies which have built them. At the heart of every sundial lies the recognition that the daily and seasonal change of light and shadow is repeated over and over again, in the past, present and into the distant future. Such knowledge was developed well before any written documents existed during times when observing did not mean measuring but rather watching and embracing the findings into a far deeper ritualistic religious frame work. A 4,000 year old monolith located at Gardom's Edge with its striking orientation and in the midst of a landscape rich in other monuments is presented as a possible example of such astronomical knowledge and how it might have been applied to create a deeper meaning for this monument.