In the year 1609, Galileo Galilei (1564-1642), an Italian professor of mathematics at Padua, learned about a crude device recently invented in the Netherlands, crafted a vastly improved version for his own astronomical purposes, and pointed it at the starry skies. In so doing, Galileo became the first known human to employ the telescope to study and observe the celestial world. To commemorate the 400th anniversary of this revolutionary event, this Spotlight feature seeks to explore the achievements of Galileo with regard to his work with the telescope, as well as to highlight the importance of this instrument and to describe how it is being used today to formulate a deeper understanding of our universe. As an individual and as a scholar in various fields (including astronomy, physics, mathematics, engineering, and philosophy), Galileo was a highly controversial figure, continually espousing "heretical" theories and refuting nonscientific dogma. With his fierce determination and his scientific curiosity, Galileo set the stage for modern astronomy as well as for all modern scientific discoveries. So aim your telescopes to the skies and celebrate the life and accomplishments of Galileo.
Back
Spotlight Home Page
|
|
