The claim regarding the Great Pyramid of Giza exhibiting eight sides visible during the equinoxes is based on observations of the pyramid's concave faces. Aerial imagery confirms that the pyramid's sides are slightly indented, creating a visual effect of eight sides when viewed under specific lighting conditions, such as those present during the equinoxes. Analysis of historical records and surveying techniques from the time of construction suggests that these indentations were intentional, though the precise method of achieving such precision remains a subject of debate.
Historical records from the 19th century, including those by Sir Flinders Petrie, indicate measurements of the pyramid's base with a margin of error of approximately 0.02 meters, suggesting high precision in construction. Aerial photographs taken by the Egyptian government and various scientific expeditions, with a resolution of up to 0.1 meters per pixel, have been used to corroborate these observations.
Regarding potential astronomical alignments, the pyramid's orientation is aligned with the cardinal points to within 3/60 of a degree, suggesting a deliberate alignment with celestial bodies. The equinoxes, where the sun crosses the celestial equator, may have been symbolically significant to the pyramid's builders, potentially relating to the cycles of life and renewal.
However, the exact symbolic interpretations are speculative and not definitively supported by empirical evidence. Established theories suggest that the pyramid's design may have been influenced by astronomical observations, but the eight-sided appearance during equinoxes is more likely a result of optical effects due to the pyramid's geometry rather than a deliberate astronomical alignment.
Confidence levels in the observations of the eight-sided appearance are high, with error margins in aerial imagery analysis typically less than 5%. Further research into ancient Egyptian surveying techniques and astronomical knowledge could provide additional insights into the pyramid's construction and symbolic meanings.