Getting to know Galileo Galilei
Early Life
One of the best-known scientists even now, Galileo Galilei was born in Pisa Italy on February 15 th , 1564 and is also known for being a Mathematician, Astronomer, Physicist and Rebel Scientist. His father was Vincenzo Galilei a musician, and his mother Guilia Ammannati. He had 5 siblings, and from an early age played the lute, but desired to be a Priest.
Personal Life
He married Marina Gamba and had 3 children, Livia, Virginia and Vincenzo Gamba. He was dyslexic and has been an inspiration for many others with the condition. He died at the age of 77 on January 8 th , 1642.
Inventions and Discoveries
Although there is a near endless list of discoveries and inventions dedicated to Galileo, some of the major ones include the Military Compass, the telescope and the 4 largest satellites or moons of Jupiter.
Working Life
Early on he was an instructor at the Accademia delle Arti del Disegno based in Florence. In 1589, he became theChair of Mathematics at Pisa University and used the Leaning Tower to conduct some experiments. He opposed findings of Aristotle, siding more with Archimedes and this led to unpopularity and no contract renewal at Pisa. He took up a similar role at Padua and taught astronomy, mathematics and geometry. For family reasons, he also needed to take on paying students in a private capacity.
Inquisition
After the inquisition, he was found to be a heretic and forced to live under house arrest. It was because of this he moved to Florence where he lived until his death. By this stage he was a full believer in the works of Copernicus.
The Final Years
Thanks to the decision by Pope, Galileo was allowed to write again and his last book was called “Two New Sciences” which outlined strength of material and the science of motion, although it was not published until after his death.