The discussion centers on the historical realization of the heliocentric model's implications for the phases of Venus, primarily attributed to Galileo's observations in the 17th century. Participants agree that prior to Galileo's telescope work, the understanding of planets was limited, viewing them merely as points of light. The conversation also touches on Nicholas of Cusa's earlier speculations about planets, though his ideas lacked the observational evidence that Galileo provided, which solidified the argument for heliocentrism.
PREREQUISITESAstronomy enthusiasts, historians of science, educators, and students interested in the evolution of astronomical theories and the impact of observational technology on scientific understanding.
Didn't Nicholas of Cusa (who was alive about 200 years before Galileo saw Venus through his telescope ) think of planets as bodies with living beings on them?phyzguy said:I could be wrong, but I don't think anyone thought about it until Galileo pointed his telescope at the skies and discovered the phases of Venus. Before then the planets were just points of light. How could a point source show phases? It was Galileo that first realized that the phases of Venus were a powerful argument in favor of the heliocentric model.
Maybe. If so, I'd like to see the documentation. Why would you single out the planets from the stars? They look the same except that the planets move.windy miller said:Didn't Nicholas of Cusa (who was alive about 200 years before Galileo saw Venus through his telescope ) think of planets as bodies with living beings on them?