Astronomy in the Islamic World: a European Perspective
Richard Kerner
TL;DR
This paper surveys mathematical and astronomical achievements of the Islamic world during its Golden Age from a European perspective. It highlights the synthesis of Greek, Indian, and Persian traditions, the translation movement, and key innovations in algebra, geometry, and observational astronomy. Notable contributions include the adoption of Hindu-Arabic numerals, the development of algebra by al-Khwarizmi, and sophisticated astronomical tables and models (e.g., Toledan Tables, Tusi couple) that influenced later Europe. The discussion also traces the transmission path to medieval Europe and situates Islamic science as a bridge between antiquity and the European Scientific Revolution. The work emphasizes both the preservation and transformation of knowledge across cultures and its lasting impact on Western science.
Abstract
Mathematical and astronomical achievements of the Islamic World during its golden era are briefly exposed. Thie article is based on the invited talk delivered remotely at the ICRANet-Isfahan Astronomical meeting, November 2-5, 2021, which, in turn, reproduces major parts of one of the chapters of my book ``Our Celestial Clockwork'', published recently (2021) by the World Scientific.