A biography profiling the life of Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei, who shared the beliefs of the controversial astronomer Copernicus that the Earth revolved around the sun. Eventually Galielo was found guilty of heresy by the Roman Catholic Church, and forced to live under house arrest for the final years of his life. Includes source notes and timeline.

Includes index and glossary.

The father of modern science -- Young Galileo -- A developing genius -- Life in Padua -- A closer look at the universe -- Differences of opinion -- Galileo on trial -- Galileo's last years -- Galileo's legacy.