An ancient Maya astronomer finally has a name

5 articles, oldest first.

1. Scientific American

   We finally know the name of a Maya mathematician ↗ (opens Scientific American)

   Published Jul 13, 2026

   Scientific American's feed description

   The signature of Sak Tahn Waax, or “White-Chested Fox,” was found inscribed in a 1,000-year-old chamber beneath present-day Guatemala

2. Phys

   Hidden in Maya wall writings: A named astronomer emerges from 1,200-year-old calculations ↗ (opens Phys)

   Published Jul 13, 2026

   Phys's feed description

   Researchers have reconstructed and transcribed a mathematical formula from the site of Xultun, Guatemala, revealing the name of a Maya astronomer for the first time. During the Classic period (250–900 CE), mathematics and astronomy were a key part of Maya society, with complex calculations based on …

3. Science Alert

   We Finally Know The Name of a Revered Maya Astronomer-Mathematician: Sak Tahn Waax ↗ (opens Science Alert)

   Published Jul 13, 2026

   Science Alert's feed description

   The Classic Maya period, from around 250-900 CE, is seen as something of a golden...

4. Nature

   Mathematics formula found on Maya wall rivals insights of ancient masters ↗ (opens Nature)

   Published Jul 13, 2026

   Nature's feed description

   Nature, Published online: 14 July 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02170-8 Mathematical texts from a Maya site in Guatemala identify an astronomer called Sak Tahn Waax.

5. Science News

   An ancient Maya astronomer finally has a name ↗ (opens Science News)

   Published Jul 16, 2026

   Science News's feed description

   A Maya calendar formula bears the name Sak Tahn Waax, the first known Classic Maya mathematician-astronomer directly credited for such work.