Despite several proposals, the gaps in the Gregorian calendar have yet to be corrected

In the conference “What if we change the calendar?” held at the UNAM, Luis Alberto Zapata González discussed the history of calendars and the challenges they face. The Gregorian calendar, introduced in 1582, is widely used but still has discrepancies with the solar year. Adjustments made by Pope Gregory XIII to the Julian calendar were aimed at correcting these discrepancies. The rotation of the Earth, lunar phases, and movement of planets impact the accuracy of calendars.

Zapata González discussed proposals for alternative calendars, such as the perpetual international calendar with 13 months and an additional month called Sol. Another proposal, the world calendar, aims to eliminate the need for periodic adjustments by organizing days into equal quarters. However, all proposed calendars face challenges in aligning perfectly with astronomical cycles and religious observances.

The issues with the current Gregorian calendar, such as the gradual accumulation of error due to discrepancies in the solar year, are difficult to resolve. Despite proposals for alternative calendars, changing the current system is complex and requires global coordination. The challenge lies in balancing astronomical accuracy, cultural traditions, and practical considerations in calendar reform.