5) Galileo Galilei (1564 to 1642 AD) (5 of 10)
5) Galileo Galilei (1564 to 1642 AD) (5 of 10)
The famous astronomer Galileo is revered for his efforts in advancing astronomy. He was an Italian philosopher, mathematician, physicist and astronomer and is also credited with improving the telescope, while also making significant astronomical discoveries, such as the satellites of Jupiter.
His support for heliocentrism landed him in a lot of trouble and eventually led to him being put under house arrest. It was during his captivity that he wrote his famous “Two New Sciences”, which consisted of descriptions of the strength of materials and kinematics. This landed him the title of “The Father of Modern Physics”, as well as a place amongst the top 10 scientists of all time.