Cosmic Creatures: Linking Animals to Stars in Australian Aboriginal Astronomy

Explore the fascinating intersection of Aboriginal astronomy and zoology in this 56-minute lecture from the University of Melbourne. Delve into the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal Australia as Duane Hamacher and Jessie Ferrari from the Faculty of Science uncover the connections between animals and celestial bodies in Indigenous astronomical traditions. Learn about the Dreaming, seasonal indicators, and clan totems while examining specific examples such as eels, the Mali fowl, and the emu. Discover how Aboriginal people have linked terrestrial creatures to star patterns, creating their own unique zodiac constellations like the Seven Sisters. Gain insights into the challenges of working with historical archives and the importance of combating misinformation in the field of Indigenous astronomy. Enhance your understanding of this captivating subject and its significance in preserving and celebrating Aboriginal knowledge systems.