The Age of Astronomy
The telescope launched a new period in astronomy, and allowed for a more in-depth and clearer view of the skies. Did you know, though, that even before the telescope, people made significant discoveries about space? View this presentation to learn about notable astronomers who helped to change the way humans thought about the universe and their place within it. Click the player to begin.
Download a printable version of the interactivity.
Thoughts about the motions of planets changed greatly from the early views of Ptolemy. While Ptolemy’s model of the solar system could explain annual solar events, it could not accurately explain all of the motions of the planets, especially those that rotated in an opposite direction, or retrograde. How did the early views of planetary motion change? View the video 130-1640 Ptolemy to Galileo from eMediaVA℠ to learn more.
The Age of Astronomy Review
Now that you have explored the age of astronomy, check to see if you can match each astronomer to his accomplishment or discovery in this non-graded activity. Read the accomplishment or discovery, then click on the astronomer who made it. After making your selection, click SUBMIT to check your response. Click the player to get started.