A new study by an astronomer has found that the ancient Egyptians associated their goddess Nut with the Milky Way galaxy. The researcher, Graur, examined 125 depictions of Nut on coffins and tombs from up to 5,000 years ago and discovered unusual paintings that show a connection between Nut and the Milky Way.
These unique images depict Nut lying down with stars covering her body and an undulating black curve that resembles the Great Rift in the Milky Way. Similar curves also appear in the decorations of four tombs in the Valley of the Kings, suggesting a close association between Nut and the galaxy.
The ancient Egyptians may have believed that this association helped protect the Earth, according to Graur. The goddess Nut was already associated with all aspects of the day and night sky, and this new discovery provides further evidence for her connection to the Milky Way.
While Egyptologists have long recognized a link between Nut and the Milky Way, this study brings an astronomical perspective to the interpretation, supporting the idea that the ancient Egyptians saw the galaxy as part of their goddess’s domain.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/ancient-egyptians/ancient-egyptians-drew-the-milky-way-on-coffins-and-tombs-linking-them-to-sky-goddess-study-finds