Galileo Galilei
Italian astronomer and physicist
Born
February 15th, 1564
461 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1642
383 years ago — 77 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
Italy
Links & References
Galileo Galilei contributed significantly to the fields of physics, mathematics, and astronomy during the early 17th century. He developed the telescope and made groundbreaking astronomical observations, including the moons of Jupiter and the phases of Venus. His support of heliocentrism, the model that places the Sun at the center of the universe, came into conflict with the prevailing geocentric views of his time, leading to his trial by the Roman Catholic Inquisition. He spent the latter part of his life under house arrest due to his writings and beliefs.
Developed the first practical telescope
Discovered four largest moons of Jupiter
Supported heliocentric theory
Published 'Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems'
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