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Period: 276 BCE to 194 BCE
Eratosthenes
Astronomical Discovery: Calculated Earth's circumference using the angle of the Sun's rays at different locations. Importance: Eratosthenes' calculation of the Earth's circumference provided a remarkably accurate estimate and laid the foundation for measuring distances on Earth and understanding the Earth's shape. -
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Claudius Ptolemy
Astronomical Discovery: Developed the geocentric model of the universe, where Earth is at the center and celestial bodies move in complex circular motions. Importance: Ptolemy's geocentric model became the prevailing cosmological system for centuries and greatly influenced astronomical thought and observation. -
Period: 1473 to 1543
Nicolaus Copernicus
Astronomical Discovery: Proposed the heliocentric model of the universe, where the Sun is at the center of the universe and planets revolve around it Importance: Copernicus' heliocentric model revolutionized our understanding o the solar system, challenging the geocentric view and paving the way to further astronomical advancements -
Period: 1546 to
Tycho Brahe
Astronomical Discovery: Compiled extensive observational data on planetary positions and developed precise instruments for measuring celestial events. Importance: Brahe's accurate observations laid the groundwork for future discoveries, including Kelper's laws of planetary motion, and contributed to the overall advancement of observational astronomy. -
Period: 1571 to
Johannes Kepler
Astronomical Discovery: Formulated three laws of planetary motion, including the elliptical orbits of planets around the Sun. Importance: Kelper's laws revolutionized our understanding of planetary motion and provided a mathematical foundation for future astronomical calculations and predictions. -
Period: to
Issac Newton
Astronomical Discovery: Developed the theory of universal gravitation, explaining the motion of celestial bodies and linking it to terrestrial motion. Importance: Newton's theory of universal gravitation unified the laws of motion on Earth and in space, enabling a deeper understanding of celestial mechanics and laying the groundwork for future astronomical and scientific discoveries. -
Period: to
Albert Einstien
Astronomical Discovery: Proposed the theory of general relativity, which explained gravity as the curvature of spacetime and predicted the bending of light in the presence of massive objects. Importance: Einstien's theory of general relativity revolutionized our understanding of gravity and its effects on the universe, offering a new perspective on astronomical phenomena and leading to significant breakthroughs in cosmology and astrophysics.