In 1999, treasure hunters found a beautifully crafted, 3600 year old Nebra Sky Disc. Although found with other artifacts such as swords and axes, the Nebra Sky Disc stood out as evidence of science and art. It is also the earliest illustration of space. The disc tells the story of how people were amazed by the stars, the moon, and the sun.
Mapping out the universe was our ancestors’ way of seeking meaning in the lives they lived. The Nebra Sky Disc is a great example of how even in early times, outer space was a place to seek answers. Since then, people have used outer space for a variety of reasons. Here are the things we look for when we look up at the sky and beyond:
1. A Confidant
It doesn’t just happen in movies, people look up at the sky and confess some of their darkest secrets. They make wishes for selfish reasons or for the betterment of others. Religious people from all around the world talk to their god and hope that their prayers will be answered.
I’m not sure if it’s because no one is there to disagree or shame their opinions but people have found sanity from talking to the open space.
2. Knowledge and Resources
As long as we have more to discover, there will be more people who want to discover it. Astronomers are working hard at finding out what is really going on in outer space. They go further than just looking up at the sky. Astronomers break down barriers.
Outer space can provide us with more knowledge for medical advancements or provide us with renewable resources for sustainability. Who knows what more deep space has to offer?
3. Freedom to Imagine
The fact that there is so much we don’t know about outer space allows us to be creative and use our imaginations. Writers dream up different technological developments that may be found further in the galaxy. Television producers and make-up artists show us what they think alien species look like. We are free to release our minds when we look up at the sky. We are able to form our own opinions about the universe.
No matter how much we learn about space, we will continually seek it for answers. Although it doesn’t talk back, it gives us a chance to think by embracing its silence. We will always want it to give us answers to our problems. We will use it to satisfy our creative itch and easily step outside the box. We will look into the sky for a sense of clarity.
