What celestial body did Galileo observe, leading to evidence that supported the heliocentric model?MarsVenusJupiterSaturn

Introduction

Galileo Galilei, an Italian astronomer, made significant contributions to the support of the heliocentric model of the solar system through his observations of celestial bodies.

Key Observations

1. Jupiter and Its Moons: In 1610, Galileo observed Jupiter and discovered its four largest moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto), now known as the Galilean moons. This observation was crucial because it demonstrated that not all celestial bodies revolved around the Earth, providing evidence for the heliocentric model, which posits that planets orbit the Sun.

2. Phases of Venus: Galileo also observed the phases of Venus, similar to the phases of the Moon, which could not be explained by the geocentric model. The way Venus appeared in full, and the way it waned, strongly supported the idea that Venus orbits the Sun, further validating Copernicus’s heliocentric theory.

Conclusion

In summary, the celestial body that Galileo observed, leading to evidence that supported the heliocentric model, was Venus, along with his observations of Jupiter and its moons. These observations were pivotal in altering the understanding of the cosmos during the Renaissance.