Galileo Galilei, born on February 15, 1564, in Pisa, Italy, was an Italian astronomer, physicist, and mathematician who played a major role in the Scientific Revolution. His contributions to science include the development of the telescope, significant improvements in its design, and numerous astronomical observations that supported the heliocentric model of the universe, proposed by Copernicus.
Galileo was the eldest of six children in his family. His father, Vincenzo Galilei, was a musician and music theorist, which might have influenced Galileo's later interest in acoustics. Galileo initially studied for the priesthood but was soon drawn to mathematics and natural philosophy. He enrolled at the University of Pisa in 1581 to study medicine at his father's behest but soon found his passion in mathematics and philosophy.
Galileo's advocacy for the heliocentric theory brought him into conflict with the Catholic Church. In 1616, the Inquisition declared heliocentrism heretical, and Galileo was warned to abandon his support for it. Despite this, he continued to research and write, leading to his trial in 1633. He was found "vehemently suspect of heresy" and forced to recant his beliefs. He spent the rest of his life under house arrest, where he continued his scientific work.
Galileo's contributions to science were profound. His approach to experimentation and observation laid the groundwork for the scientific method. His advocacy for the heliocentric model paved the way for the acceptance of modern astronomy. After his death in 1642, his works were banned by the Church, but his ideas persisted and were later vindicated as science progressed.