Birth of Galileo Galilei
Galileo Galilei is born in Pisa, Italy.
Studies at the University of Pisa
Galileo begins studying medicine, but soon turns his attention to mathematics and physics.
Discovery of the law of the pendulum
Galileo studies the isochronism of pendulum motion, a crucial step in mechanics.
invention of the thermoscope
Galileo develops an early form of the thermometer.
Improvement of the telescope
Galileo improves the existing telescope designs and uses the instrument for astronomical observations.
Discovery of lunar mountains and the moons of Jupiter
Galileo observes craters on the moon and four moons orbiting Jupiter.
Publication of 'Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems'
Galileo publishes his famous work in which he defends the heliocentric model.
Trial before the Roman Inquisition
Galileo is summoned before the Inquisition on charges of heresy because of his heliocentric views.
house arrest and late works
Galileo spends the final years of his life under house arrest, where he nevertheless continues to carry out scientific work.
Death of Galileo Galilei
Galileo dies in Arcetri, near Florence, as a blind but tireless spirit of science.
Trial before the Roman Inquisition
After the publication of his dialogue, Galileo is forced to appear before the ecclesiastical tribunal in Rome. Under threat of torture, he formally recants his belief that the earth revolves around the sun, but according to legend he afterwards mutters the famous words 'E pur si muove' ('And yet it moves').