Ep 80. Ancient Discoveries: Ancient Computer?

Ancient Discoveries: Ancient Computer is a fascinating episode from season 11 of the popular documentary series, Modern Marvels. This episode delves into the mysteries of an ancient Greek device known as the Antikythera Mechanism, which has been called the world's first computer.

The device was discovered by chance in 1901, when a group of sponge divers off the coast of the Greek island of Antikythera stumbled upon a shipwreck from the 1st century BC. Among the artifacts recovered from the site was a corroded lump of bronze and wood that turned out to be an incredibly complex mechanism made up of dozens of interlocking gears.

For many years, scholars were perplexed by the device, which seemed to have no parallel in the ancient world. But over the past few decades, researchers have used cutting-edge technology to uncover its secrets.

The program follows the work of a team of experts, including historians, archaeologists, and engineers, as they attempt to decipher the Antikythera Mechanism and understand how it was used.

Through computer modeling, X-ray imaging, and other techniques, the team is able to reconstruct the device and determine its various functions. They discover that it was a highly sophisticated astronomical calculator that could predict the movements of the sun, moon, and planets and even mark the dates of major events such as the Olympics.

But perhaps even more impressive than the device itself is the fact that it was created over 2,000 years ago, at a time when most people believed that the Earth was flat and the universe revolved around our planet. The Antikythera Mechanism serves as a reminder of the incredible ingenuity and knowledge of the ancient Greeks, who were able to make groundbreaking discoveries without the benefit of modern technology.

The episode also explores the implications of the Antikythera Mechanism for our understanding of the history of science and technology. It raises important questions about the transmission of knowledge across different cultures and the ways in which ancient civilizations may have been more technologically advanced than we previously thought.

Overall, Ancient Discoveries: Ancient Computer is a captivating and thought-provoking episode of Modern Marvels that will appeal to anyone with an interest in history, science, or technology. With its mix of expert analysis, cutting-edge technology, and engaging storytelling, it is a fitting tribute to one of the most remarkable and intriguing artifacts of the ancient world.