The Chinese Academy of Sciences operates Purple Mountain Observatory which is a major astronomical research institution located on the Purple Mountain (Zijinshan) in Nanjing, China.
It conducts research in areas such as astrophysics, solar physics, planetary science, and cosmology. The site originally focused on traditional optical observations but has since expanded its work to include radio and high-energy astrophysics.
The site is home to several ancient astronomical devices that reflect China's long history in astronomy. These devices highlight the ingenuity and artistry of ancient Chinese astronomers.
Armillary Sphere
Originally designed by Zhang Heng during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25–220 CE), this device was used to determine the positions of stars. The version at the here is a replica from the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644); a scientific tool and a work of art.
Celestial Globe
The celestial globe, was used to map the positions of stars and celestial objects as they appear in the sky. It is a three-dimensional representation of the heavens, showcasing constellations and the movement of celestial bodies.
The celestial globe at the observatory is a replica from the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), crafted with intricate detail. It features a network of engraved lines representing celestial coordinates, such as the ecliptic and equator, which were essential for tracking the movement of stars and planets. This tool was not only a scientific instrument but also a testament to the artistic and technical skills of its creators.
This rotating suspension bridge, was designed by Santiago Calatrava and finished in 2001, named "Women's Bridge".
Finland has been the battle ground of crusaders from Sweden and Germany; and occupied by Russia. Suomenlinna (Our Land) is a fortress built by Finland for naval defense on a group of islands near Helsinki.
Scotland and the UK have been at odds for centuries. Thousands of people have attended a pro-Scottish independence march through the streets of Edinburgh as organizers insist momentum is growing in the face of Brexit.
There are social-economic strata defined by law that classifies neighborhoods into one of six levels, one being the poorest and six being the wealthiest. The poor have housing and utilities subsidies and pay lower taxes while the rich pay more.
In a blunder by the Peruvian government in the early 1990s, Peru began a program to sterilize poor indigenous women.
Santiago Calatrava designed this footbridge as an enormous sundial. Completed in 2004, it's an international attraction for architecture fans.
Everyone in Cuba gets a Supplies Booklet that is essentially a ration book. Qualified supplies are subsidized at a below-market rate and quantities are limited to prevent black market resale.
Timkat 2025
Timkat, the Ethiopian Orthodox celebration of Epiphany, is one of the most vibrant and significant religious festivals in Ethiopia, commemorating the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. It is celebrated on January 19th and lasts for three days, involving elaborate rituals, processions, and ceremonies.
Ketera
The festivities begin on the eve of Timkat, known as Ketera, where preparations are in full swing. Tabots are taken out from the churches in a grand procession and carried to a body of water, symbolizing the Jordan River. The tabots are wrapped in luxurious cloth and shaded by vibrant umbrellas, a key feature of Ethiopian Orthodox liturgy.
Priests, deacons, and other participants don their most colorful ceremonial attire, chanting hymns and prayers accompanied by the rhythmic beat of traditional drums, the sound of sistra (a type of musical instrument), and the sway of ceremonial staffs. The faithful follow the tabots in procession, often singing and ululating, creating an atmosphere charged with spiritual energy.
Timkat
On the morning of Timkat, believers gather at the water's edge for a mass service and to witness the central event—the blessing of the water. As dawn breaks, priests bless the water with prayers and by dipping the tabots into the water. This ceremony re-enacts the baptism of Jesus and is believed to cleanse the participants of their sins. Many attendees then participate in a ritual immersion, symbolizing their own renewal and commitment to their faith.
Return of the Tabots
After the water blessing, a grand procession begins to return the tabots to their respective churches. This procession is equally joyful and celebratory, with the faithful singing, dancing, and drumming along the way. The return of the tabots signifies the closing of the main Timkat celebrations.
Page 4 of 6