Story perspectives

Ancient Star Catalog Unearthed: Hipparchus's Secrets Decoded

2/1/2026

43 5

Summary

Story summary

Researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory recovered parts of Hipparchus's star catalog by decoding erased text in Codex Climaci Rescriptus with synchrotron technology.
Dating to the 5th or 6th century, the Codex Climaci Rescriptus contains star coordinates and sketches revealing Hipparchus's methods.
The findings may clarify debates about the origins of astronomical knowledge and the contributions of Ptolemy.
The project aims to uncover more hidden texts and broaden understanding.

1 of 1

Story summary

Researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory recovered parts of Hipparchus's star catalog by decoding erased text in Codex Climaci Rescriptus with synchrotron technology.
Dating to the 5th or 6th century, the Codex Climaci Rescriptus contains star coordinates and sketches revealing Hipparchus's methods.
The findings may clarify debates about the origins of astronomical knowledge and the contributions of Ptolemy.
The project aims to uncover more hidden texts and broaden understanding.