Indian Astronomy and Navigation

Description: Test your knowledge about the fascinating world of Indian Astronomy and Navigation.
Number of Questions: 15
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Which ancient Indian astronomer is widely regarded as the father of Indian astronomy?

  1. Aryabhata

  2. Bhaskara II

  3. Brahmagupta

  4. Varahamihira


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Aryabhata, who lived in the 5th century CE, made significant contributions to astronomy, mathematics, and trigonometry. He propounded the heliocentric theory, which placed the Sun at the center of the solar system.

The ancient Indian text that extensively covers astronomy, mathematics, and astrology is known as:

  1. Rigveda

  2. Yajurveda

  3. Samaveda

  4. Atharvaveda


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Rigveda, one of the four Vedas, contains hymns and verses that touch upon various aspects of astronomy and cosmology. It mentions celestial bodies, constellations, and astronomical phenomena.

Which Indian astronomer proposed the idea of a spherical Earth rotating on its axis?

  1. Aryabhata

  2. Bhaskara II

  3. Brahmagupta

  4. Varahamihira


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Aryabhata, in his treatise 'Aryabhatiya,' put forth the concept of a spherical Earth rotating on its axis. This idea was revolutionary for its time and challenged the prevailing flat-Earth belief.

The ancient Indian astronomers used a specific instrument to measure the positions of celestial bodies. This instrument was called:

  1. Astrolabe

  2. Sundial

  3. Compass

  4. Quadrant


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The astrolabe was an important instrument used by Indian astronomers to measure the altitude of celestial bodies above the horizon. It allowed them to determine the time, latitude, and longitude.

Which Indian astronomer developed a method for calculating the circumference of the Earth using trigonometry?

  1. Aryabhata

  2. Bhaskara II

  3. Brahmagupta

  4. Varahamihira


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Aryabhata, in his work 'Aryabhatiya,' presented a method for calculating the circumference of the Earth using trigonometry. His estimate was remarkably accurate for its time.

The ancient Indian astronomers divided the zodiac into how many parts?

  1. 12

  2. 24

  3. 27

  4. 36


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The ancient Indian astronomers divided the zodiac into 12 equal parts, known as rashis or signs. Each sign is associated with a constellation and has its own unique characteristics and symbolism.

Which Indian astronomer proposed the idea that the Moon's surface is uneven and has mountains and valleys?

  1. Aryabhata

  2. Bhaskara II

  3. Brahmagupta

  4. Varahamihira


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Aryabhata, in his work 'Aryabhatiya,' suggested that the Moon's surface is not smooth but has mountains and valleys. This idea was later confirmed by telescopic observations.

The ancient Indian astronomers used a specific calendar known as:

  1. Gregorian Calendar

  2. Julian Calendar

  3. Hindu Calendar

  4. Chinese Calendar


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The ancient Indian astronomers developed the Hindu calendar, also known as the Panchang, which is based on the lunar and solar cycles. It is widely used in India and other parts of South Asia.

Which Indian astronomer developed a method for calculating the time of eclipses?

  1. Aryabhata

  2. Bhaskara II

  3. Brahmagupta

  4. Varahamihira


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Aryabhata, in his work 'Aryabhatiya,' presented a method for calculating the time of eclipses, both solar and lunar. His method was based on his understanding of the motion of the Sun, Moon, and Earth.

The ancient Indian astronomers used a specific constellation to mark the beginning of the new year. This constellation is known as:

  1. Ursa Major

  2. Orion

  3. Taurus

  4. Aries


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The ancient Indian astronomers used the constellation Aries to mark the beginning of the new year. This is because the Sun enters the sign of Aries during the spring equinox, which is considered an auspicious time for new beginnings.

Which Indian astronomer developed a theory of planetary motion that incorporated elliptical orbits?

  1. Aryabhata

  2. Bhaskara II

  3. Brahmagupta

  4. Varahamihira


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Bhaskara II, in his work 'Siddhanta Shiromani,' proposed a theory of planetary motion that incorporated elliptical orbits. This theory was a significant advancement in astronomy and provided a more accurate description of planetary motion.

The ancient Indian astronomers used a specific instrument to measure the altitude of celestial bodies above the horizon. This instrument was called:

  1. Astrolabe

  2. Sundial

  3. Compass

  4. Quadrant


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The quadrant was an instrument used by ancient Indian astronomers to measure the altitude of celestial bodies above the horizon. It consisted of a quarter-circle arc with markings for measuring angles.

Which Indian astronomer developed a method for calculating the distance between the Earth and the Moon?

  1. Aryabhata

  2. Bhaskara II

  3. Brahmagupta

  4. Varahamihira


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Aryabhata, in his work 'Aryabhatiya,' presented a method for calculating the distance between the Earth and the Moon. His method was based on the observation of lunar eclipses.

The ancient Indian astronomers used a specific constellation to mark the beginning of the monsoon season. This constellation is known as:

  1. Ursa Major

  2. Orion

  3. Taurus

  4. Cancer


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The ancient Indian astronomers used the constellation Cancer to mark the beginning of the monsoon season. This is because the Sun enters the sign of Cancer during the summer solstice, which is associated with the onset of the monsoon rains in India.

Which Indian astronomer developed a theory of planetary motion that incorporated the concept of epicycles?

  1. Aryabhata

  2. Bhaskara II

  3. Brahmagupta

  4. Varahamihira


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Brahmagupta, in his work 'Brahmasphuta Siddhanta,' developed a theory of planetary motion that incorporated the concept of epicycles. Epicycles are small circles that are used to explain the variations in the motion of planets.

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