This translation of an ancient Chinese book on astronomy (which is believed to date back to the first century AD) provides the non-specialist with a lucid account of how Chinese astronomers did their work in ancient times. The book also shows how the Chinese imperial government made use of and supported the work of astronomers, and explores the links between astronomy and politics. It will be of equal interest to historians of science and those studying the history of Chinese culture.

‘… Cullen provides a lucid and highly readable survey of the development of Chinese cosmography … All this and more is set forth in a jargon-free style accessible to the general reader while at the same time satisfying the demands of the specialist for comprehensive and informative references and Chinese characters.’

Source: The Journal of Asian Studies

‘The pathway for the reader is more than just academically interesting … he will find himself led through fascinating territory.’

Source: Irish Astronomical Journal

‘Christopher Cullen’s book will help immensely in enlarging our view of cultural production during the Han … [it] is a challenging and thoughtful inquiry for any reader of ancient Chinese texts.’

Andrea Eberhard Source: Centaurus

‘… the first easily accessible introduction to the developing mathematical and observational practices of ancient Chinese astronomers … of equal interest to historians of science and those studying the history of Chinese culture.’

Source: Europe & Astronomy