The Antikythera Mechanism

The Antikythera mechanism is the oldest mechanical computer known to date. It is a calculator made for calculating the positions and movement of the sun and moon.  It is also known as the first analog computer because of the many gears contained within. The flawless design of the Antikythera mechanism hints that it was built after many other previous models. It was estimated to be built around 100-150 BC. This device was discovered by sponge divers in 1901 off the coast of the Greek island, Antikythera. All though no more of the Antikythera mechanism can be found, scientists have made many hypotheses of more functions and parts of the device. For instance, it is believed that once a date was entered and a crank was turned, the device could calculate the astronomical positions for that day.