Maya Math Formula Found on Guatemalan Wall

A mathematical inscription discovered on a Maya wall in Guatemala has revealed a sophisticated formula that rivals the insights of ancient masters. The finding, published online on July 14, 2026, in the journal Nature, also identifies an astronomer named Sak Tahn Waax.

The inscription was found at the Maya archaeological site of El Mirador, located in the Petén Basin of Guatemala. Researchers from the University of Cambridge, who led the excavation and decipherment, stated that the formula appears to be related to astronomical calculations, specifically concerning the cycles of Venus. This suggests a level of mathematical understanding among the Maya that is more advanced than previously understood for this period.

Sak Tahn Waax, whose name is inscribed alongside the mathematical notation, is believed to have been a prominent astronomer and mathematician within his society. The discovery provides a rare glimpse into the intellectual life of the ancient Maya and highlights their significant contributions to fields like astronomy and mathematics. The complexity of the formula indicates a deep understanding of abstract concepts and their application to celestial observations.

Further analysis of the inscription is ongoing, with scientists hoping to unlock more secrets about Maya cosmology and their scientific achievements. The El Mirador site, known for its monumental architecture, continues to yield important discoveries that reshape our understanding of this ancient civilization. The Maya civilization flourished in Mesoamerica for centuries, developing complex writing systems, calendar systems, and advanced architectural and artistic techniques.