Astronomy, the oldest of the sciences, has a history which goes back thousands of years. Civilizations throughout the world recorded events which they observed, including eclipses of the sun and moon, and the behaviour of meteors, comets and stars. These observations contain a wealth of information which is of great importance and interest to the modern day astronomer.

A Chronicle of Pre-Telescopic Astronomy presents a chronological record of all types of account of astronomical discoveries and events from all nations, from the earliest times to the year AD 1609, the year in which the telescope was first used. As such, it provides a unique history of mankind's changing view of the Universe. Useful biographies of the major figures are given, including details of the conflicts and rivalries between astronomers, and between astronomers and the authorities.