On the Observations of the Sun in Polynesia

TL;DR

This paper explores Polynesian sun-related mythology, deciphering ancient texts and calendars to understand historical observations of solar and celestial phenomena, highlighting the cultural significance of astronomy in Polynesia.

Contribution

It decodes the Rongorongo text concerning a solar eclipse and links Polynesian mythology and calendar systems to specific astronomical events.

Findings

Deciphered Rongorongo text about the 1805 solar eclipse

Identified the Mataveri calendar as a 1775 rock inscription

Linked the vernal equinox to the bird-man festival

Abstract

The role of the Polynesian sun god Tagaloa has been studied. The Polynesian characters Maui-tikitiki, Tane and Tiki were related to the sun as well. The solar data of Easter Island are essential indeed. The rongorongo text on the Santiago staff about the solar eclipse of December 20, 1805 A.D. has been decoded. The Mataveri calendar was probably incised on a rock in 1775 A.D. So, a central event during the bird-man festval was the day of vernal equinox. The priests-astronomers watched not only the sun and the moon, but also some stars of the zodiacal constellations and other bright stars.