Astronomy and Tycho Brahe

These flashcards cover the key concepts and individuals related to the transformation of astronomy during the Renaissance, particularly focusing on Tycho Brahe's contributions.

What was the significance of the Counter Reformation in relation to the Catholic Church's art commissions?

The Catholic Church commissioned art with popular appeal, moving away from elite-targeted works to regain influence.

Who was Tycho Brahe?

A prominent astronomer from Denmark known for his accurate and comprehensive astronomical observations.

What is a key achievement of Tycho Brahe's work?

He developed a geo-heliocentric model and built precise astronomical instruments, improving the accuracy of celestial measurements.

What was Uraniborg?

The first major observatory in Europe, built by Tycho Brahe on the island of Hven.

What was the primary focus of Tycho Brahe's observations?

He focused on comets, supernovae, and the precise positions of stars and planets.

How did Tycho Brahe's model of the universe differ from Copernicus'?

Brahe's model placed the Earth at the center with the Sun and Moon orbiting the Earth, while other planets orbited the Sun.

Which instruments contributed to Tycho Brahe's accuracy in astronomical measurements?

Large sextants and the azimuthal quadrant allowed for more precise observations.

What were the Rudolphine Tables?

Astronomical tables published by Johannes Kepler that were based on Tycho Brahe's observations.

What did Tycho Brahe's observations reveal about comets?

He provided evidence that comets were celestial phenomena, not atmospheric events, challenging existing views.

What is the significance of Tycho Brahe's legacy in astronomy?

He established new data analysis techniques and improved the precision of astronomical observations, paving the way for future astronomers.