Cosmos, Culture and Landscape
Documenting, Learning and Sharing Australian Aboriginal Astronomical Knowledge in Contemporary Society
Keywords:
Australian Aboriginal sky mythology, astronomy, digital imaging, Ilgarijiri—Things Belonging to the Sky, Wolfe Creek Crater, Emu constellation, Australian Aboriginal DreamtimeAbstract
The Cosmos Culture and Landscape project investigated two contemporary examples of Western Australian Aboriginal astronomical knowledge and cultural beliefs. Radio astronomers from the Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory and Square Kilometre Array radio telescope project in the Murchison Region, and local Aboriginal communities were brought together in a collaborative endeavour, so that both groups could share their respective knowledge of the night sky. Aboriginal perspectives were examined of the 300,000+ year old Wolfe Creek Crater in the East Kimberley region. In-depth video interviews documented Aboriginal knowledge and extensive digital imaging (360° and timelapse) of key locations were used to record landscapes. New resources were developed (a video exhibit and virtual tour) and successfully applied to encourage learning and appreciation of Australian Aboriginal sky knowledge.
Readers are respectfully advised that this chapter contains the image and names of Aboriginal people who have passed away.
