UK astrophysicist uncovers oldest known Milky Way depiction in ancient Egyptian art
New study links 5,000-year-old coffin and tomb paintings of the sky goddess Nut to early representations of the galaxy, revealing advanced celestial symbolism in ancient Egypt
CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — A groundbreaking study led by Or Graur, Associate Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Portsmouth, has uncovered what is believed to be the earliest known representation of the Milky Way in ancient Egyptian art.
The discovery emerged as part of a wider research project documenting mythological interpretations of the Milky Way across global civilizations, according to a report by RT.
Graur’s focus turned to ancient Egypt, where celestial bodies were often linked to gods and cosmic events, according to Independent Egypt.
Graur analyzed 125 depictions of the sky goddess Nut across 555 ancient Egyptian coffins dating back around 5,000 years.
His findings, published in the Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage, suggest that a wavy line seen in several representations may symbolize the Milky Way—specifically the “Great Divide,” a dark dust band that cuts through the bright glow of the galaxy.
Nut, a central figure in Egyptian cosmology, was often shown as a nude woman arching over the sky, sometimes embellished with stars.
While she was commonly associated with the solar cycle and flood protection, Graur’s study suggests that her image may also contain a visual reference to the galaxy.
Similar artistic elements appear in royal tombs in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings. In the tomb of Ramesses VI, the ceiling artwork is split into depictions of day and night, each showing Nut arching above, flanked by shimmering, undulating lines.
These golden swirls bear a striking resemblance to modern astronomical images of the Milky Way.
Graur emphasized that the Milky Way is not depicted as Nut herself, but rather as one of the celestial features that enhance her divine imagery.
The absence of similar wavy lines in other cosmic depictions of Nut further supports the theory that these representations are unique indicators of the galaxy.
The discovery provides fresh insight into the astronomical knowledge and symbolic sophistication of ancient Egyptian civilization, revealing how early cultures interpreted the cosmos through mythological and artistic expression.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
