Ideas

How Galileo revolutionized science to make way for modernity

Apr 1, 2025
Carlo Rovelli, a leading Italian theoretical physicist and bestselling author, discusses the revolutionary impact of Galileo Galilei on modern science. He passionately explores Galileo’s trailblazing work with the telescope and how it reshaped our understanding of the cosmos. Rovelli connects Galileo’s insights on gravity and tides with contemporary debates on black holes and quantum physics. The conversation also delves into the emotional aspects of scientific discovery, the intersection of science and politics, and the significance of engaging with societal challenges.
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ANECDOTE

Galileo's Astronomical Discoveries

  • Galileo's telescope observations revealed unseen celestial features.
  • These included Venus's phases, Jupiter's moons, Saturn's rings, and sunspots.
INSIGHT

Galileo's Telescope Refinement

  • Galileo transformed the Dutch telescope into a scientific instrument.
  • Venice's superior glass technology enabled this advancement.
ANECDOTE

Galileo's Meticulous Notes

  • Galileo meticulously documented Jupiter's moons' positions nightly.
  • His notebooks, kept in Florence, reveal this dedication.
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