Early Astronomers
Ancient Astronomy
Astronomy played an important role in ancient cultures and to ancient astronomers. Learn more about these ancient advancements in astronomy in this interactivity. Click on each of the thumbnail images to view details about ancient cultures and ancient astronomers.
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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.
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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.
Early Astronomers Review
Now that you have explored early astronomers and 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 button to get started.