On what specific date did Galileo first record sighting three celestial bodies aligned with Jupiter?
Answer
January 7, 1610
The initial documented observation where Galileo perceived three distinct 'stars' positioned adjacent to Jupiter occurred specifically on January 7, 1610. Following this first sighting, he proceeded to chart their positions rigorously over the subsequent nights. This initial record is critical because it marks the starting point for the systematic tracking process that ultimately allowed him to confirm that these objects were orbiting the planet, leading shortly thereafter to the detection of the fourth major moon.
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