The Cosmic Mandala: Celebrating Tibetan Astronomy and Cosmology

This website is based on a poster presented at the annual meeting of the American Astronomical Society and Astronomical Society of the Pacific in June 2008. All materials presented here are designed for educational purposes, both in formal settings (schools) and informal settings (planetariums, community groups, and the general interested public). It is hoped that this website will help educate many about the rich astronomical history and customs of the Tibetan people.

   Happy Losar 2009!

Click on the appropriate lotus blossom below to access site material:

  Intro to Tibetan Astro Science

The connection between astronomy and astrology in Tibetan culture

Tibetan astronomical terms (and other helpful words)

Tibetan "planets"

Tibetan zodiac and lunar houses

Tibetan lunar calendar

Determining the winter solstice Tibetan style

  Tibetan cosmological models

Cosmic mandalas

  Tibetan cosmology and modern science

Miscellaneous Tibetan astronomical folklore and tradition

Links

Last updated February 23, 2009.

Please note that there are multiple texts and traditions within the larger Tibetan culture. While this website seeks to be balanced, it is limited by the number of available English translations.

Questions, comments, and concerns should be directed to Kristine Larsen (larsen@ccsu.edu).

Merit is shared with all sentient beings. Faults are the sole burden of the webmaster.