Ancient Egyptians Viewed the Milky Way as Manifestation of Goddess Nut, Study Finds

New research reveals that the Milky Way played a significant role in ancient Egyptian cosmology, symbolizing the sky goddess Nut who guided souls to the afterlife.

• Astrophysicist Dr. Or Graur's study links the Milky Way to Nut, the ancient Egyptian sky goddess, suggesting it represented her body's different parts throughout the year.
• Nut was believed to assist in the transition of souls, with the Milky Way serving as a path to the afterlife, similar to beliefs in other ancient cultures.
• The study, published in the Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage, utilized astronomical simulations to align the Milky Way's appearance with descriptions of Nut in ancient texts.
• Comparative mythology shows Nut's connection to the Milky Way is consistent with celestial interpretations by other cultures, including Native American and Baltic traditions.
• The findings offer new insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs and highlight the Milky Way's role in their understanding of the cosmos and the afterlife.

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