Person
Nicolaus Copernicus
Astronomer
Developed a mathematical model in which Earth rotates and the planets orbit the Sun.
Text
De revolutionibus
1543
Copernicus’s major work presenting a mathematical heliocentric system.
Event
Galileo’s Observations
Telescopic evidence
Observations of Venus, Jupiter’s moons, and the lunar surface challenged established assumptions about the heavens.
Person
Galileo Galilei
Astronomer
Used telescopic observations and physical arguments to defend Earth’s motion.
Person
Claudius Ptolemy
Astronomer
Developed an influential geocentric system that modelled planetary motion around a stationary Earth.
Concept
Geocentrism
Earth-centred model
A cosmological model in which Earth remains stationary near the centre of the cosmos.
Concept
Heliocentrism
Sun-centred model
A model in which Earth rotates and travels around the Sun with the other planets.
Concept
Kepler’s Laws
Planetary motion
Three mathematical laws describing planetary motion in elliptical orbits around the Sun.
Note
How Scientific Models Change
research question
Scientific models change through the interaction of mathematics, observation, instruments, inherited assumptions, and institutions.
Event
Galileo’s Trial
1633
Galileo was tried by the Roman Inquisition and ordered to abandon his defence of Earth’s motion.