Ancient Egyptian Coffins Reveal Potential Depiction of the Milky Way

Dr. Or Graur, Associate Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Portsmouth, has uncovered a potential ancient Egyptian visual representation of the Milky Way. By analyzing images of the sky-goddess Nut on 555 ancient Egyptian coffins, he discovered a distinctive undulating black curve on the coffin of Nesitaudjatakhet, remarkably similar to the Milky Way's Great Rift. This, combined with astronomical analysis, suggests the curve might depict the Milky Way, though not as a direct representation of Nut herself, but rather as a celestial element adorning her. This interdisciplinary study bridges astronomy and Egyptology, offering fresh insights into the role of the Milky Way in ancient Egyptian culture and religion.