For decades, the iconic Stonehenge has been synonymous with solar alignments, drawing thousands of visitors each year to witness the summer solstice sunrise. However, a long-standing hypothesis suggests that this ancient monument may also be aligned with the Moon, specifically during a rare celestial event known as the major lunar standstill.
A New Perspective on Stonehenge
While the solar alignment of Stonehenge is well-documented, the possibility of a lunar connection has been largely overlooked. Our research project, a collaboration between archaeologists, astronomers, and photographers from English Heritage, Oxford, Leicester, and Bournemouth universities, as well as the Royal Astronomical Society, aims to explore this fascinating aspect of Stonehenge.
The Station Stones: A Lunar Connection?
The four station stones, arranged in a rectangle, have long been a subject of curiosity. Only two of these stones remain, and their purpose has been unclear. However, their alignment with the major lunar standstill offers a compelling explanation for their presence. The rectangle formed by the station stones is not arbitrary; its longer sides align with the lunar standstill, a phenomenon that occurs every 18.6 years.
A Celestial Event of Significance
The major lunar standstill is a rare and awe-inspiring event, where the Moon rises and sets at its northernmost and southernmost points on the horizon. This celestial phenomenon has been observed and revered by ancient cultures, including the ancestral Pueblo people of the US southwest.
Unraveling the Mysteries of Stonehenge
Our research seeks to answer the many questions raised by the major lunar standstill hypothesis. We will investigate whether the lunar alignments of the station stones were symbolic or observational, and which phases of the Moon would have been most dramatic to witness. We will also explore how the Moon’s alignment with the station stones would have interacted with the other stones at Stonehenge.
A Unique Opportunity for Observation
Between February 2024 and November 2025, the Moon will align with the station stone rectangle twice a month, offering a unique opportunity for observation and research. English Heritage will livestream the southernmost Moonrise in June 2024, accompanied by a series of events, including talks, stargazing sessions, and storytelling.
A Transatlantic Collaboration
Our partnership with the US Forest Service will result in educational materials and events showcasing the major lunar standstill at Chimney Rock National Monument, a site with cultural significance to 26 native American tribal nations. This collaboration will facilitate a deeper understanding of the lunar alignments at both Stonehenge and Chimney Rock, fostering a greater appreciation for the celestial connections that have inspired human cultures throughout history.
