A Glimpse into Galileo’s Discoveries

Heliocentric Theory: Galileo championed the heliocentric theory proposed by Copernicus, which argued that the Earth and other planets orbit the Sun, opposing the long-held geocentric view that placed Earth at the universe's center.

Telescopic Observations: His telescopic observations, including the phases of Venus and Jupiter's moons, offered compelling evidence in favor of the heliocentric model.

The Inquisition's Role

The Inquisition was a series of institutions established by the Catholic Church aimed at eradicating heresy. Originating in the 12th century, it spread across Europe and the Americas, infamous for its use of torture and execution against various minority groups, as well as those who dared to challenge the Church's doctrines, including scientists and philosophers.

Conflict with the Church

Church’s Position: The heliocentric model contradicted the Church's literal interpretation of Scripture, which at the time supported the geocentric view in line with Aristotle and Ptolemy’s teachings.

Galileo’s Defense: Despite the Church's stance, Galileo argued for the heliocentric theory, suggesting that it was not only scientifically sound but also compatible with a correct interpretation of the Scriptures.

The Timeline of Galileo's Trials

First Confrontation (1616): The Church cautioned Galileo against promoting heliocentrism. Though he agreed, he continued his studies discreetly.

Publication of 'Dialogue' (1632): Galileo published "Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems," featuring a fictional debate on the two cosmological models, which the Church viewed as a breach of their 1616 agreement.

Trial by the Inquisition (1633): Galileo was tried for heresy due to his advocacy for heliocentrism.

Verdict and Sentence: Found “vehemently suspect of heresy,” he was compelled to renounce his views and sentenced to house arrest for life. Yet, even in confinement, he pursued his passion for astronomy, physics, and mathematics, making discoveries that would impact future generations.

“Nature is a book written in the language of math.”

— Galileo Galilei

One of his notable accomplishments was the publication of "Two New Sciences," which he dictated to his pupil, Vincenzo Viviani, while blind and bedridden. Released in 1638, it included his insights on material strength, projectile motion, and falling bodies, establishing foundations for mechanics and calculus, influencing figures like Isaac Newton.

Despite the risks, he continued to observe celestial phenomena, documenting the phases of Venus, the four largest moons of Jupiter, the rings of Saturn, and sunspots. His fascination with comets led him to write a treatise discussing their nature and origins.

Galileo passed away on January 8, 1642, at the age of 77, in his villa in Arcetri, near Florence. His burial was unceremonious, without monument or epitaph, as the Church prohibited any public acknowledgment of his achievements. Eventually, his remains were relocated to the Basilica of Santa Croce, where a grand tomb was erected in his honor in 1737.