Discovering Our Past: Medieval and Early Modern Times

"The Age of Enlightenment"

Introduction
In this chapter you learned about the Scientific Revolution of 17^th century Europe. One of the most recognized scientists of that period is Galileo, who famously angered the Catholic Church by defending Copernicus's belief that the earth was not the center of the universe. As you will see, the lasting genius of Galileo's work has more to do with his analysis of time and motion than with his study of the heavens.

Visit the Galileo Web site to become an expert on the lesser-known—but nonetheless important—discoveries of this remarkable scientist and mathematician.

Destination Title: Galileo

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Directions
Begin at the NOVA Galileo site.

• Click the “His Place in Science” link on the menu and read about Galileo’s contribution to scientific inquiry.
• Click the “His Telescope (and Sir Isaac's)” link and read about Galileo’s role in developing the telescope.
• At the bottom of this page you will find a box that includes a link called “His Experiments.” Follow this link and work through the interactive exhibit.

1			What did Galileo do with the telescope that no one had ever done before?
2			How many times does a 9-foot pendulum swing in the time it takes a 1-foot pendulum to swing 30 times?
3			What discipline did Galileo apply to the study of philosophy and nature?
4			Using the telescope, Galileo discovered moons rotating around which planet?
5			Based on what you have read on this website, write a short essay in which you discuss what you think is Galileo’s most important contribution to science. Your essay should consider how this contribution challenged the prevailing views of 17th century Italy and how it resonates in the scientific world today.