Starry Holidays: Celebrating Celestial Events Around the World
Gene Aguilar
This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice.
From ancient solstice celebrations to modern meteor shower parties, this book takes readers on a cultural and astronomical tour through different customs and rituals related to the stars and planets. Discover the celestial significance behind holidays like the Summer Solstice, Lunar New Year, and Perseid Meteor Shower, and learn how people around the globe have intertwined astronomy with their cultural practices. Delve into the history and folklore surrounding celestial events, from the alignment of the planets to the appearance of comets in the night sky. Learn about the traditions of indigenous communities who have long observed the movements of the stars for navigation, agriculture, and spiritual purposes. Explore the ways in which astronomy has influenced art, music, and literature throughout history, shaping our understanding of the universe and our place within it. Get inspired to plan your own stargazing holidays and celebrations with practical tips on the best times and locations to observe cosmic phenomena. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a novice skywatcher, "Starry Holidaysoffers a diverse range of activities and ideas for connecting with the cosmos in a meaningful way.
Duration - 2h 11m.
Author - Gene Aguilar.
Narrator - Digital Voice Melissa G.
Published Date - Wednesday, 22 January 2025.
Copyright - © 2025 Edward Lim ©.
Location:
United States
Description:
This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. From ancient solstice celebrations to modern meteor shower parties, this book takes readers on a cultural and astronomical tour through different customs and rituals related to the stars and planets. Discover the celestial significance behind holidays like the Summer Solstice, Lunar New Year, and Perseid Meteor Shower, and learn how people around the globe have intertwined astronomy with their cultural practices. Delve into the history and folklore surrounding celestial events, from the alignment of the planets to the appearance of comets in the night sky. Learn about the traditions of indigenous communities who have long observed the movements of the stars for navigation, agriculture, and spiritual purposes. Explore the ways in which astronomy has influenced art, music, and literature throughout history, shaping our understanding of the universe and our place within it. Get inspired to plan your own stargazing holidays and celebrations with practical tips on the best times and locations to observe cosmic phenomena. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a novice skywatcher, "Starry Holidaysoffers a diverse range of activities and ideas for connecting with the cosmos in a meaningful way. Duration - 2h 11m. Author - Gene Aguilar. Narrator - Digital Voice Melissa G. Published Date - Wednesday, 22 January 2025. Copyright - © 2025 Edward Lim ©.
Language:
English
Chapter 1: Introduction to Astronomy and Holidays 5
Duration:00:00:03
- Discuss the importance of astronomy in various cultures 5
Duration:00:03:13
- Introduce the concept of holidays and traditions related to celestial events 8
Duration:00:02:54
Chapter 2: Winter Solstice 11
Duration:00:02:49
- Explore the origins and significance of winter solstice celebrations 14
Duration:00:03:21
- Highlight holidays such as Christmas, Yule, and Hanukkah that are related to this celestial event 17
Duration:00:02:07
Chapter 3: Lunar New Year 19
Duration:00:02:32
- Learn about the lunar calendar and how it is used to determine holidays 22
Duration:00:03:09
- Discuss traditions associated with Lunar New Year celebrations, such as lion dances and fireworks 25
Duration:00:02:39
Chapter 4: Summer Solstice 28
Duration:00:01:48
- Delve into the history and customs surrounding summer solstice festivals 30
Duration:00:03:34
- Highlight holidays like Midsummer and Litha that are connected to the longest day of the year 33
Duration:00:02:17
Chapter 5: Perseids Meteor Shower 36
Duration:00:02:58
- Learn about the annual meteor shower and its significance to stargazers 39
Duration:00:02:58
- Explore traditions and events related to watching the Perseids 42
Duration:00:02:47
Chapter 6: Solar and Lunar Eclipses 45
Duration:00:02:38
- Explain the science behind eclipses and how they have influenced cultures throughout history 48
Duration:00:02:56
- Discuss myths and customs associated with solar and lunar eclipses 51
Duration:00:02:51
Chapter 7: Star Parties and Astronomy Festivals 54
Duration:00:03:24
- Discover various events and gatherings where stargazers can come together to celebrate their love of astronomy 57
Duration:00:04:48
- Highlight popular star parties and astronomy festivals around the world 62
Duration:00:04:40
Chapter 8: Harvest Moon 66
Duration:00:02:36
- Explore the folklore and traditions surrounding the Harvest Moon 69
Duration:00:03:00
- Discuss holidays and festivals that coincide with this celestial event 72
Duration:00:03:20
Chapter 9: Venus Transit 75
Duration:00:03:02
- Learn about the rare occurrence of a Venus transit and its significance to astronomers 78
Duration:00:02:52
- Explore past observances and modern-day celebrations related to this event 81
Duration:00:03:05
Chapter 10: Ancient Astronomy 84
Duration:00:03:22
- Delve into the astronomy practices of ancient civilizations, such as the Mayans, Egyptians, and Greeks 87
Duration:00:02:41
- Discuss how their observations of celestial events influenced their holidays and traditions 90
Duration:00:02:55
Chapter 11: Night Sky Photography 93
Duration:00:03:08
- Provide tips and techniques for capturing stunning images of the night sky 96
Duration:00:02:56
- Explore how stargazers can incorporate photography into their holiday celebrations 99
Duration:00:02:51
Chapter 12: Comet Watching 102
Duration:00:03:01
- Discuss the history and mythology surrounding comets 105
Duration:00:03:16
- Highlight holidays and festivities related to the sighting of comets 108
Duration:00:03:55
Chapter 13: Stargazing Superstitions 112
Duration:00:02:49
- Explore common superstitions and beliefs related to stargazing 115
Duration:00:03:23
- Discuss how these superstitions have influenced cultural practices and celebrations 118
Duration:00:03:53
Chapter 14: Celebrating the Cosmos 122
Duration:00:02:58
- Reflect on the interconnectedness of astronomy, holidays, and human culture 125
Duration:00:03:03
- Discuss the importance of celebrating and connecting with the cosmos through various traditions 128
Duration:00:03:25
Chapter 15: Conclusion 131
Duration:00:02:48
- Recap the key themes and insights gained from exploring holidays and traditions related to astronomy 134
Duration:00:03:02