Galileo Facts
Galileo Galilei was one of the most prolific scientists of all time. He was an astronomer, physicist, inventor and philosopher. He was born in Pisa, Italy on February 15, 1564. His father was a lute player and musical theorist. Galileo started studying at a monastery near Florence. He seriously considered priesthood at a very young age. His father wanted him to study medicine so he enrolled but never completed his degree. He also worked as an art teacher for a brief period in the city of Florence.
Quick Facts: –
- Galileo built his first telescope in 1610.
- He was the first astronomer to discover the four moons of Jupiter. Now, these moons are known as Galilean moons.
- He is also known as the father of observational astronomy and the father of modern science.
- He also taught his students how to cast horoscopes.
- Galileo never married but he had three children with a woman named Marina Gamba.
- His two daughters were sent to a convent and ended up becoming nuns.
- Galileo was also an accomplished lutenist. He learnt from his father.
- By the Roman Inquisition, he was sentenced to life in prison. He spent his last years under house arrest.
- The middle finger of his right hand is currently on exhibition at the Museo Galileo in Florence, Italy.
