Thomas Gough

Independent Scientist

Abstract

Precise Lunar Alignments: Real or Chance?    New Data from Argyll

During the 1970s Alexander Thom showed the possible existence of precise lunar alignments, using horizon features from a marked backsight. The results were later criticised for their wide choice of site by location and type. By 1985 it was generally accepted that doubts over site selection could cause inadvertent bias. Thus the results could be due simply to chance. The present investigation attempts to avoid these criticisms by choosing a limited region, considering only standing stones (but not circles) and including all sites investigated. Several other limiting criteria were employed. Random sites and directions were also investigated in an attempt to determine the likelihood of chance alignments. In the current survey nearly all indicated foresights gave precise lunar alignments, the majority giving clear evidence for the observation of the small (9 arc) lunar perturbation (wobble). This knowledge could be used to predict eclipses. The results imply that the currently accepted social structure during the Early Bronze Age requires revision.

 

Biographical Details

Thomas Gough has a PhD. in Chemistry from Edinburgh University (1973), with experience in a range of activities which offer skills relevant to the present investigation. In the early 1970s he was active in astronomy fieldwork as part of the U.K. Site Testing Project; this project was set the task of finding a suitable observatory site in the NH.  Gough took a leading part in the initial investigation of the Island of La Palma (Canary Is.) which was subsequently chosen. For the lunar investigation undertaken, the ability to use a theodolite is essential. This was facilitated by extensive sextant use during a period of small boat sailing 1980 - 1984.