SUMMARY
The Wells cycle, proposed by Garrick Wells, is an eclipse cycle lasting 51,649 days, suggesting that an eclipse observed from a specific location will likely recur after this period. This cycle spans 17 centuries with only one recorded failure. The discussion references the Saros cycle and Poincaré's recurrence theorem, indicating a mathematical relationship between these cycles and lunar phases. The total number of days in the cycle is derived from complex calculations involving lunar months and years.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of eclipse cycles, specifically the Saros cycle
- Familiarity with lunar calendars and their calculations
- Basic knowledge of Poincaré's recurrence theorem
- Mathematical skills for analyzing long-term cycles
NEXT STEPS
- Research the Saros cycle and its significance in eclipse prediction
- Explore Poincaré's recurrence theorem and its implications in astronomy
- Study the mathematical foundations of lunar calendars and their cycles
- Investigate historical records of eclipses and their patterns over centuries
USEFUL FOR
Astronomers, mathematicians, and enthusiasts interested in eclipse cycles, lunar calendars, and the mathematical relationships governing celestial events.