How is the replacement of older astronomical ideas viewed as engine of scientific progress?

Answer

It is the method by which science corrects itself when observational data demands a more precise description

The process where older ideas are superseded by newer ones is not seen as a failure or mere guesswork, but rather as the primary mechanism driving scientific advancement. For instance, Newtonian mechanics perfectly describes most satellite movements, but when observations revealed discrepancies in extreme gravity environments or over vast timescales, the more comprehensive framework of General Relativity was adopted to achieve perfect agreement with observations, such as Mercury's orbit. This evolution signifies that the discipline is constantly refining its models to achieve a better, more precise description of reality based on empirical evidence.

How is the replacement of older astronomical ideas viewed as engine of scientific progress?

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