Trigonometry is a branch of mathematics that studies the relationships between the angles and sides of triangles. Its name comes from two Greek words meaning ‘triangle’ and ‘measure’. It is used almost everywhere in mathematics, but here are two applications to astronomy where it is used to measure distances in the universe. The first example is from ancient Greece and the second is from present-day astronomy. Let us explore some of the ideas involved.
Trigonometry grew out of the need of the ancient Greek astronomers to make certain calculations. One of the first to develop the new ideas was Aristarchus, who lived about 2300 years ago. He realised that the Moon shines because it is illuminated by the Sun. We are so used to this fact that it seems obvious. However, to an ancient Greek with little proper knowledge of the solar system, it was not at all obvious and it is clear that Aristarchus had remarkable insight.
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