The African Universe

 BEGST is currently seeking funding for this project

This proposed documentary film will explore the astronomy of selected ancient African civilizations with a focus on certain specific monuments created by those civilizations.

Scientific studies of those monuments reveal an understanding of astronomy and engineering so sophisticated as to suggest they were created by civilizations that were intellectually, culturally, and technologically advanced.  These civilizations flourished on the African continent centuries before Western civilization even emerged.

Our goal is to unveil the scientific achievements of these ancient African astronomers, to share the discoveries they contributed to civilization, and to inform about the civilizations that created them. Most people are familiar with Stonehenge, but few know that equally compelling monuments exist on the African continent, most of which predate Stonehenge by centuries. 

This documentary will explore some of the reasons why these civilizations have remained little known, in particular, the fact that they did not have a written language and shared knowledge primarily by word of mouth, knowledge that was largely lost, or dormant, when the civilizations ceased to exist.

To be shot on location in Africa over the course of approximately six months, the film will focus on the astronomy of the ancient Dogons (Mali), as well as on specific ancient astronomical sites:   Adam’s Calendar (South Africa); Khami Ruins  (Zimbabwe); the Kalokol Pillar (Kenya)'; and the Nabta Playa (Egypt). This last one, located in Tulane, is believed by some scientists to signify the birthplace of astronomy on the continent.

If you or your organization would like to contribute to this project, please
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