Communications of the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory (ComBAO)
Volume 72, Issue 1, Jul 2025

INTRODUCTION 0.1 MB
Editorial Board
Pages: 1-2



Recent activities of the Armenian Virtual Observatory (ArVO) 0.4 MB
A. M. Mickaelian, G. A. Mikayelyan, H. V. Abrahamyan, H. V. Astsatryan, and A. V. Knyazyan
Pages: 3-11
Abstract. The Astrophysical Virtual Observatories (AVOs) have been created in a number of countries using their available databases and current observing material as a collection of interoperating data archives and software tools to form a research environment for processing complex data-intensive and compute-intensive research workflows. The Armenian Virtual Observatory (ArVO, https://www.aras.am/Arvo/arvo.htm) is a project of the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory (BAO) aimed at the construction of a modern system for data archiving, extraction, acquisition, reduction, use, and publication. ArVO is based on the Digitized First Byurakan Survey (DFBS, https://www.aras.am/Dfbs/dfbs.html) and is the Armenian contribution to the International Virtual Observatories Alliance (IVOA, https://ivoa.net/). One of the ArVO’s main tasks is to create and utilize a global Spectroscopic Virtual Observatory, which will combine data from DFBS and other low-dispersion spectroscopic databases, as well as provide the first understanding on the nature of any object up to B = 18m. This is important as among all astronomical data, a large spectroscopic database is especially useful for understanding the nature of all observed objects. Hence, ArVO will utilize the DFBS as an appropriate large spectroscopic database. In the frame of ArVO, BAO collaborates with the Institute of Informatics and Automation Problems (IIAP, https://iiap.sci.am/) of the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia to develop software ecosystem for ArVO satisfying the IVOA standards. Besides the DFBS, ArVO provides access to the Digitized Second Byurakan Survey (SBS) database, the Byurakan photographic archive, and BAO 2.6 m and 1 m Schmidt telescopes modern observations.



Three-Body Problem and an Unrecognized Oscillatory Motion of the Earth 0.2 MB
G. Javakhishvili
Pages: 12-15
Abstract. Building on the classical three-body problem, this paper introduces the concept of a "center of acceleration" in the Sun–Earth–Moon system. This center is shown to move with the frequency of the Moon’s orbit and induces an additional radial oscillation in the Earth’s trajectory, independent of barycentric motion. Using Dopplergram data from the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO), this oscillation was measured to have an amplitude exceeding 25,000 kilometers.



Observation of Near Earth Asteroids (NEA) at the Abastuman Astrophysical Observatory 0.2 MB
V. Ayvazyan, R. Inasaridze, Yu. Krugli, and D. Zhuzhuiadze
Pages: 16-18
Abstract. In this paper, the objects of study are near-Earth asteroids, or NEA for short. They are small solid celestial bodies that closely approach or intersect the Earth’s orbit. From a scientific point of view, NEA approaches to the Earth allow us to study cosmic bodies. On the other hand, the importance of studying NEA is justified by the danger of these bodies falling to the Earth and causing catastrophic events. The fall of NEAs to the Earth’s surface is a proven fact. Such events occurred in the past history of the Earth, are occurring at present and are expected in the future. Therefore, in order to predict such falls and understand the degree of danger, it is necessary to discover new NEAs and study them. Regular photometric observations of NEAs are carried out at the Abastumani Observatory, which are primarily the observatory’s contribution to solving the global problem of "Asteroid Hazard". The study of asteroids in Abastumani will be continued by conducting their optical observations in selected areas of research.



Multi-period variations during Solar Cycles 23–24 0.2 MB
N. Tsabadze, T. V. Zaqarashvili, and G. Ramishvili
Pages: 19-22
Abstract. Solar periodicity is discovered in many magnetic activity indices (11 years, Rieger type 155-165 days, hundreds, and thousands of years). This research investigates multi-periodic variations in solar activity during Solar Cycles 23–24 and estimates the dynamo field strength. Daily sunspot area data from the Greenwich Royal Observatory were analyzed using Lomb-Scargle and Wavelet methods. These reveal multi-periodic variations (40–600 days) across the Sun’s full disk. The observed periods likely originate from magneto-Rossby waves in the solar dynamo layer. We estimate dynamo field strengths of 25–31 kG for Cycle 23 and 23–30 kG for Cycle 24 using wave dispersion relations.



Some of Extreme Eclipsing Binaries among Hot B Stars 0.4 MB
T. Kvernadze, K. Chargeishvili, O. Kvaratskhelia, G. Kurkhuli, V. Kozlov, and G. Kapanadze
Pages: 23-29
Abstract. In this work we used the catalog of spectral and luminosity classes of 6,037 stars in the direction of the Galaxy anticenter and selected a subsample list of 2067 stars covering whole B spectral and luminosity classes including peculiar B stars. We used TESS Quick-Look Pipeline (QLP) light curves for all those stars from the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST) database in FITS format tables and processed all of them using interactive python code. To avoid contamination of variability from neighboring stars we analyzed light curves per pixel for each star and extracted a light curve free of any contamination. For pulsation eclipsing binary stars we estimated frequency spectra using Lomb-Scargle Periodograms and excluded it from a source light curve to get a pure transit signal. We used than Transit Least Squares algorithm to determine the periods and epochs of eclipsing events and built the phase curves. As a result we are presenting 23 new detached eclipsing binary stars, 11 of which have high eccentricity and 12 of them show pulsation signals.



Dust and Ices in the SNR 0.1 MB
A.Yeghikyan. M. Rah, and S. Shamyar
Pages: 30-34
Abstract. The presence of dust in supernova remnants (SNRs) is confirmed by extensive infrared data from observatories such as Spitzer, Herschel, and JWST, alongside theoretical models of dust formation. This study explores the existence of dust and ices, particularly water ice via 62 μm in SNRs such as the Crab Nebula and N49, using observational data and preliminary modeling with Cloudy. Observations suggest that water ice may be present in IC 443 and possibly other remnants, though the 63 μm band could also indicate [OI] emission. Theoretical models indicate that water ice could survive under certain conditions in SNRs, with densities and temperatures analyzed. Further observations and refined simulations are needed to confirm these findings.



The Galaxy distribution of pulsars 0.1 MB
R. R. Andreasyan, G. M. Paronyan, and A. G. Sukiasyan
Pages: 35-39
Abstract. We investigated the distribution of pulsars in our Galaxy. Special attention was paid to Galaxy distribution of millisecond pulsars. We study also the difference of physical properties of millisecond and normal pulsars as well as the differences in physical properties of millisecond pulsars in Globular clusters and these objects in the Galaxy field.



Machine Learning Methods used to Distinguish Open Clusters from Asterisms using Gaia DR3 data 0.6 MB
G. Kapanadze, T. Kvernadze, O. Kvaratskhelia, G. Kurkhuli, and V. Kozlov
Pages: 40-47
Abstract. We present the use of the scikit-learn DBSCAN clustering code as a machine learning tool to test the membership and integrity of apparent open clusters to distinguish asterisms from real open clusters in the Gaia DR3 3D data space. For testing means, we studied known Open Clusters NGC 1798 and NGC 6633. In the field of NGC 1798 we accidentally confirmed an Open Cluster LP17. For final analyze, we processed the 11 open clusters of Dolidze-Jimsheleishvili as the most of them are small having low spatial density and are hard to confirm as an Open Clusters with other methods. As a result, we report that 3 of them show clustering tendency as the open clusters: DolidzeDzim 6, DolidzeDzim 7 and DolidzeDzim 10.



Observations of the selected astronomical objects using Polarization-Holographic Imaging Stokes Polarimeter 0.3 MB
G. Kurkhuli, T. Kvernadze, G. Kakauridze, and B. Kilosanidze
Pages: 48-54
Abstract. In this paper we present the innovative Polarization-Holographic Imaging Stokes Polarimeter which is developed based on a unique polarization-holographic diffraction element and allows one to determine full polarization of a light coming from a point or an extended space object in visual and near-infrared spectral ranges. Laboratory tests and first astronomical polarimetric observations show that the resulting errors are of the 10−4 order. As an example, the preliminary results of the polarimetric observations of some bright Algol-type variable stars and spicules are presented.



Pulsars and Millisecond Pulsars II: Deep diving into the Evolutionary Mechanisms 0.4 MB
M. Rah, R. Spurzem, F. Flammini Dotti, A. Mickaelian
Pages: 55-77
Abstract. This study investigates the evolutionary spin behaviors, both spin-down and spin-up, of canonical pulsars and millisecond pulsars (MSPs) in the unique dynamical environments of globular clusters, with a particular focus on identifying distinct evolutionary channels that can be modeled using direct N body simulations (via NBODY6++GPU). Leveraging observational data from the ATNF Pulsar Catalogue, we compile a sample of 80 pulsars divided into four populations: normal and millisecond pulsars in both the Galactic field and globular clusters. Through detailed analysis of pulsar spin periods (P) and their derivatives (P’), along with derived quantities such as surface magnetic field strength (B), rotational energy loss rate (É), and characteristic age (τc), we construct a comprehensive P – P’ diagram that captures the physical and evolutionary diversity of these sources. This visualization not only delineates the classical separation between young, high-B, high-P’ pulsars and recycled MSPs, but also reveals population-dependent patterns shaped by environmental influences such as stellar encounters, binary exchanges, and accretion-induced spin-up mechanisms. We identify seven distinct evolutionary scenarios that describe the spin evolution of pulsars in globular clusters, including tidal spin-up, exchange interactions, accretion from low-mass companions, magnetic field decay, and triple system evolution. Each scenario outlines a possible formation channel for observed pulsar properties and is suitable for forward modeling using direct N -body methods coupled with binary stellar evolution recipes. By integrating pulsar observational data with astrophysical modeling requirements, this work lays the foundation for self-consistent simulation frameworks aimed at reproducing observed pulsar populations in dense stellar systems. The results have implications for neutron star retention, recycling pathways, and the long-term dynamical evolution of stellar clusters harboring MSPs.



Differential Rotation of F G K M Main-Sequence Stars 0.2 MB
A. Tabatadze and V. Kukhianidze
Pages: 78-83
Abstract. Context: The Kepler mission spent 9 years discovering exoplanets; however, it also provided valuable information not only about these objects but also more than 200,000 light curves of active stars. From this data, we can measure stellar characteristics such as rotation period and differential rotation.
Aims: Our main goal is to measure differential rotation (DR) using two methods. The first is the ”Two-Peak Method,” developed by Reinhold & Gizon (2015). Their research provided a formula that calculates the DR coefficient based on the difference between the periods of two peaks that are close to each other. The formula (Phigh-Plow)/ Phigh gives the DR parameter, where Phigh and Plow represent periods at higher and lower latitudes, respectively. A positive coefficient indicates solar-like differential rotation, while a negative coefficient indicates anti-solar differential rotation. The second method is the ”Gaussian Distribution Function Method,” which assumes that the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the periodogram’s Gaussian distribution can be an indicator of the star’s differential rotation.
Method: We used the Kepler database (Q0-Q17 quarters) to derive differential rotation for 25,000 F G K M spectral-class stars using the two methods described above. We analysed their light curves using the Lomb-Scargle periodogram.
Results: In our research, we identified differential rotation in 500 stars using the “Two-Peak Method” and in 200 stars (with 10 solar-like effective temperature, radius, and rotation period stars) using the “Gaussian Distribution Function Method”. From the first one, we found ∼ 10% asymmetry between solar and anti-solar differential rotation. For these 500 stars, DR was measured for the first time in almost 300 stars. We also present the statistical characteristics (rotation period, temperature, radius, log g, and mass) of these stars in relation to the differential rotation coefficient.



Studies of the characteristics of the extended galaxy 4C 39.04 and the distribution of extragalactic sources around it 0.2 MB
M. A. Hovhannisyan, V.A. Hovhannisyan, S.A. Mkhitaryan, L.A. Mahtesyan, and A.P. Mahtessian
Pages: 84-89
Abstract. Studies are being conducted on the distribution of extended radio sources and extragalactic objects in their region. This work presents the results of the study of the distribution of extragalactic sources around the radio galaxy 4C 39.04. 4C 39.04 is a giant radio galaxy, both in terms of size and intensity. Within this source, there are numerous compact sources, and the appearance of the radio spectra of compact and extended sources differs significantly. The distribution of extragalactic sources around the galaxy shows that the number of extragalactic sources near this radio galaxy is quite small. If this is not due to absorption by extragalactic matter, it can be concluded that there are very few extragalactic sources in this region, which distinguishes it from other regions. Thus, there is a deficiency of extragalactic objects around the radio galaxy 4C 39.04.



The existence of Dark energy leaves no room for Dark matter 0.1 MB
H. A. Harutyunian
Pages: 90-95
Abstract. Dark matter was introduced into science to reconcile observational data with the dominant cosmogonic ideas. According to these ideas, all baryon configurations in our Universe are believed to be dynamically balanced, to which the virial theorem is applicable. However, the discovery of dark energy changed the situation drastically. Self-consistent application of physical laws to the process of interaction between baryon matter and the carrier of dark energy allows one to conclude that all baryon configurations are constantly gaining energy and cannot be balanced. Therefore, the need to introduce dark matter disappears, and the only inevitable conclusion is the rejection of dark matter, since it does not exist.



Andromeda galaxy vs Milky Way galaxy 0.1 MB
A.A. Torosyan
Pages: 96-99
Abstract. Some physical features of the Andromeda galaxy are compared with their counterparts in the Milky Way to demonstrate that the Andromeda galaxy has traversed a longer evolutionary path. One of the evolutionary dependents in galaxies is the metallicity factor. The metallicity radial gradient in galaxies can also be used for this purpose. Most probably, the globular cluster system in galaxies can also serve for this purpose. We propose that dark energy interacts with matter at all levels and plays a role in controlling its evolution, particularly through destructive processes. As a result, we observe phenomena such as metal-poor globular clusters and the blueshift of certain galaxies — effects that, in our view, cannot be fully explained by the Doppler effect alone, but may instead reflect an underlying evolutionary mechanism.



Investigation of Blazars in UV and in radio 0.3 MB
V.K. Mkrtchyan, H.V. Abrahamyan, and A.M. Mickaelian
Pages: 100-105
Abstract. Blazars are the most energetic sources in the Universe, but have not been thoroughly and homogeneously investigated in all spectral ranges, particularly in UV. We carried out cross-correlations of BZCAT v.5 Catalogue with UV (GALEX) and radio catalogues, in order to find a connection between the fluxes in UV with optical and radio ranges. BZCAT v.5 catalogue includes 3561 objects. For these objects, we found 1841 associations from the GALEX catalogue (providing Far UV – FUV and Near UV – NUV), from which 999 associations from FIRST (providing fluxes at 1400 MHz) and 855 associations from SDSS (providing photometry at ugriz bands and medium dispersion spectroscopy for limited number of objects). Our main task is to understand which type of blazars (BZB, BZG, BZQ, and BZU) are more powerful sources in the UV range. We calculated UV/radio and UV/opt flux ratios and analyzed them to understand possible connections between radio, optical, and UV ranges. Having our new optical classification of blazars by activity types, we also analyzed the UV/radio/optical properties of the sample across their activity types.



Residence time of spectral lines photons in the optically active media 0.3 MB
A. Nikoghossian
Pages: 106-112
Abstract. As part of our recent series of works on the evolution of spectral lines formed in optically active media under the influence of non-stationary energy sources, the paper examines temporal changes in certain statistical averages characterising the radiation field in the medium under study. Line radiation transfer in 1D atmosphere of finite optical thickness is considered for monochromatic scattering. Of the statistical averages, the greatest attention is paid to the average residence time of various photons during diffusion in the medium. At the same time, the average number of scatterings occurring in the medium and the average number of photons undergoing thermalization are also determined. The specified values, together with the profiles of the lines formed, are given for both photons reflected from the medium and photons passing through it. First, the problem of steady-state radiation is considered, after which the evolutionary picture of all the above-mentioned values under the action of non-stationary sources of illumination of the medium is described.



The Problem of Diffuse Reflection in the Case of Redistribution of Radiation by Frequencies and Directions: Complete Simplification of the Solution by means of Decomposition of Resultant Field (DRF) Method 0.1 MB
H.V. Pikichyan
Pages: 113-119
Abstract. The method of decomposition of the resulting field (DRF) developed by the author is used to further simplify the solution of the diffuse reflection problem (DRP) from a semi-infinite medium in the case of redistribution of radiation by frequencies and directions. Taking into account the presence of a natural combination of frequency and angle of absorption of a quantum makes it possible to bring the solution of the problem to its complete simplification. The search for eigenfunctions and eigenvalues of DRP that depend on three independent variables and satisfy the joint system of integral equations with nonlinearity of the fifth degree and algebraic equations of the second degree is reduced to the determination of two types of new auxiliary functions from the system of nonlinear integral equations. The first type depends on only one argument with the second degree of nonlinearity of the equations, and the second one on three arguments with the third degree of nonlinearity of integral equations. The accompanying systems of algebraic equations that determine the corresponding eigenvalues are also simplified: instead of nonlinearity of the second degree, linear systems are obtained.



Midday Shadows and Functionality of Central Pillars in Enclosure D at Portasar (Göbekli Tepe) 0.3 MB
H.A. Malkhasyan
Pages: 120-126
Abstract. This study investigates the potential shadow-tracking functionality of Pillars 18 and 31 in Enclosure D at the Pre-Pottery Neolithic site of Portasar (G¨obekli Tepe). Based on simplified three-dimensional modeling, photometric analysis, and simulations using Stellarium 24, the research focuses on the midday shadow dynamics during the year’s key solar events: the solstices and equinoxes. The findings indicate that the grooves on the upper sections of the Pillars, as well as symbolic carvings—such as the bucranium, the “H” symbol, and the “lunisolar” motif—may have served as solar or lunar shadow markers aligned with the culmination points of the Sun and the Moon. Specifically, the bucranium appears to correspond to the culmination of the Taurus constellation (particularly the Pleiades), while the position of the “lunisolar” symbol coincides with the equinoctial noon and possibly with lunar or solar eclipses. These results support the hypothesis that the central Pillars functioned as an integrated shadow-measuring system, potentially enabling Early Neolithic communities to mark key calendrical thresholds throughout the year.



Effects of Geomagnetic Disturbances on Incidence of Stroke: Identifying Gaps for Future Research 0.1 MB
S. Shamyar and A. Yeghikyan
Pages: 127-130
Abstract. Geomagnetic disturbances (GMDs)—transient variations in Earth’s magnetic field driven by solar activity — have garnered increasing attention for their potential impact on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular outcomes, including stroke. A growing body of epidemiological research has documented the correlations between geomagnetic storms and stroke incidence, particularly among high-risk populations. However, mechanistic studies remain scarce and existing findings are often inconsistent across geographic regions, stroke subtypes, and patient-specific variables. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the literature on GMDs and cerebrovascular health, highlights the physiological pathways that potentially link GMDs to stroke, and identifies key gaps in current research. We propose future interdisciplinary directions for integrating space weather forecasting with clinical neurology to inform early-warning systems and stroke prevention strategies.



Scientific (Astro) Journalism Activities in Armenia 0.1 MB
L. Darbinyan, A. Mickaelian, and S. Farmanyan
Pages: 131-134
Abstract. The significant media achievements of BAO are the result of dedicated efforts by its team of young and experienced scientists, whose passion for astronomy continues to inspire society. By combining transparent, creative, and strategic communication, BAO has built strong local and international visibility, serving as a bridge between past scientific milestones and future discoveries.

XVIII AMBARTSUMIAN’s READINGS

The Functional Interrelation of Central Pillars in Enclosure D at Portasar (G¨obekli Tepe) 0.2 MB
H. A. Malkhasyan
Pages: 135-140
Abstract. This study aims to reinterpret the spatial relationship between the central Pillars 18 and 31 of Enclosure D at Portasar (G¨obekli Tepe), considering it as a potential practical instrument for determining the summer solstice and equinoxes. A shadow-tracking simulation was conducted using positional data from the Pillars, architectural plans, and the Stellarium 24 astronomical software. The mutual positions of the Pillars’ shadows were examined during the four key dates of the year—winter and summer solstices, and the vernal and autumn equinoxes, at sunrise and sunset. The results show that only at sunrise on the summer solstice do the shadows align in such a way that a light-filled gap appears between the Pillars, directed southwest. During the equinoxes, the shadows produce a “gating” effect—opening at sunrise and close at sunset. The “H” and “I” symbols carved on Pillar 18 (as well as on other Pillars at the site) may correspond to the horizontal and vertical trajectories of the observed shadows. Furthermore, a visual correlation is observed between the imagery on a carved bone spatula and the sunrise during the summer solstice. These findings suggest a potential shadow-based calendrical application for the Pillars.



Reflection of Celestial Luminaries, Constellations, and the Structure of the Universe in the Archaeological Artifacts of Ancient Armenia 0.4 MB
H. E. Simonyan
Pages: 141-149
Abstract. Numerous evidences of observing the starry sky since ancient times have been recorded in the Armenian Highlands, which have been imprinted in the form of geometric images on rocks, stone carvings, and archaeological artifacts. The oldest cosmogonic myths have been preserved in folklore, mythological narratives, epics, ethnographic rituals, and charms. This article is devoted to the interpretations of the myths that have reached us about the universe, constellations, the Sun, stars, comets, meteors and other celestial bodies, and the ancient and medieval geometric signs that reproduce them.



Architectural Features of the Byurakan Observatory Complex 0.9 MB
A. H. Grigoryan
Pages: 150-157
Abstract. The world-famous Byurakan Observatory was founded by two prominent Armenian intellectuals, Academicians Viktor Ambartsumian and Samvel Safaryan. This complex is a vivid witness to the synthesis of scientific and architectural thought, as a result of which the Observatory has become an exemplary scientific space and cultural monument. Architects Samvel Safaryan, Rafael Israelyan, Sargis Gurzadyan designed the administrative building and two telescope towers, the guesthouse building and the construction works, architects Martin Mikaelyan, Varazdat Arevshatyan, and Margarit Hayrapetyan contributed to the design of the Observatory complex. The Byurakan Observatory is a unique architectural ensemble that reflects the influences of post-Tamanyan Armenian national romanticism with later Soviet modernism. Thus, it is an integrated whole, each building harmonizing with historical environment, making the valuable complex a synthesis of medieval heritage and modern architectural approaches.



Phonetic and Semantic Developments of the Native Armenian Word “Yerkin” in Polynesian Languages and Armenian 0.2 MB
L. G. Stepanyan
Pages: 158-164
Abstract. The close prototype of the native Armenian word yerkin “sky, heaven” is found in the Polynesian Rapanui, Maori, Mangareva, Tuamotu languages, as an archaism preserved in the Far Eastern islands such as the penultimate stress and the VSO structure of the sentence specific to Pre-Proto-Armenian. Continuing the examination of the parallels revealed in Armenian through the pan-Polynesian ragi (rangi) “sky” > Armenian ērgi, yerkin “sky”, this article presents more than 10 word parallels of the latter’s lagi (langi) and laani variants in Armenian. The regular phonetic developments and semantic changes they have undergone in Armenian are revealed. Thus, it turns out that all the variations of the Polynesian root rangi, langi, laani “sky” in Polynesian languages are present in Armenian, with numerous and diverse dual-plan (phonetic and semantic) developments and form a fairly large genealogical cluster.



The Door of Mher: The Urartian Deities as Constellations 0.9 MB
A. Armin (Babayan)
Pages: 165-176
Abstract. This article is about the Urartian inscription on the rocky hill named “Door of Mher”, which is located in the vicinity of the modern-day city of Van and on which the pantheon of the Kingdom of Van — the names of deities and the quantities of sacrifices (goat, bull/cow, ram/sheep) prescribed for the deities — is presented, and the quantities of these sacrifices were prescribed during the celebration of the month of Sun. For those involved in Urartian studies, the identities of the deities as well as the logic behind the structure of their sequence have been considered unknown. However, as a result of comparative examination, it turns out that the deities of the Kingdom of Van are first and foremost deity-constellations and, most importantly, they are constructed based on the sequence of the heliacal rising, like the II and IV calendar lists with the Mesopotamian name Mul.Apin.



Hayk Nahapet – Epic Hero and Cosmic God 0.4 MB
G. Vardumyan
Pages: 177-184
Abstract. The Armenian historical tradition has preserved evidence about the eponymous ancestors Hayk and Aram, who gave their names to the country and the nation. The most ancient narratives are about Hayk Nahapet (Patriarch) – the epic hero of the Armenian nation after whom Armenians call themselves Hay and their country Hayk’ (Hayq). The legends also mention Aram, a heroic figure of the sixth generation of Hayk, whose name gave rise to the exonyms Armenia and Armenians. These patriarchs symbolize Armenian national identity and have been deified for centuries. Both eponyms, Hayk and Aram, are mentioned in various written sources. This article traces the evolution of Hayk’s image – from a brave giant-hunter to an epic archer, and from a patriarch-ancestor to a cosmic god-creator personifying time and eternity. For thousands of years, Hayk has remained the central figure in the ethnogonic myths of the Armenian nation. His multi-layered figure has played an epoch-making role in the processes of the formation and development of Hayk’-Armenia, ensuring its endurance through millennia and its continuation into the present day.



Map-Database of Ancient Culture of the Armenian Highland 0.3 MB
K. Tokhatyan
Pages: 185-190
Abstract. The reliability of cultural and historical primary sources depends on the degree of study, pre-requisites, and means of research. With such a variety and quantity, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive and complete study with a multi-element classification. In particular, five distinct stages can be identified in the history of Rock-art study in Armenia: first – the emergence of petroglyphologic thought (V-VII Ce., Movses Khorenatsi, Anania Shirakatsi); second – discovery and descriptive notices (1886 - the first half of the XX Ce.); third: targeted scientific expeditions (1965-1985); fourth: creation of the electronic Map-Database; fifth: 3D modeling of the distribution of petroglyphs and related artifacts in natural-historical environment. Started in 2000 and continuously updated, an electronic map-catalogue of petroglyphs and archaeological sites has been gradually expanding, transforming into a multifaceted repository of ancient culture. Each of the six main layers represents a constituent unit with sublayers. For example: Topography, Geomorphology, Hydrography, Communication Ways, Biosphere, Historical-cultural units. Through interdisciplinary research conducted with the help of the Database, built on a complete description of the natural-historical context and artifacts, the connection of various historical and cultural units with the environment and their functions in the past is revealed. As a result, the process of formation of the ancient cultural space becomes more understandable.



Man is a Part of the Universe 0.2 MB
M. A. Karapetyan
Pages: 191-195
Abstract. “The universe is a living organism, because new stars are born every day,” Viktor Ambartsumian said on one occasion. The planet Earth as part of the Cosmic system is also a living system. Ancient philosophers spoke about this as they saw the world in the interactions and connections present in it. Later it was confirmed among others by J. Bruno, G. Newton, A. Shirakatsi. Currently, this idea is being confirmed by various scientific studies. In works of V.I. Vernandski, P.A. Florenski, A.L. Chijevski and Kozirev, living matter is seen as a living cosmic entity, where everything is united not only in terms of the universal connection of objects and phenomena, but also in terms of their interdependence and interconnectedness, as in the living systems.



ERRATUM 0.1 MB