On what specific date in January 1610 did Galileo first notice the three faint points of light near Jupiter?
Answer
January 7, 1610
Galileo's systematic observation began in the winter of 1609-1610 after improving his telescope. He first recorded observing three faint points of light clustered near Jupiter on January 7, 1610. This initial sighting marked the beginning of the systematic charting process that would prove these objects were orbiting the planet, distinguishing his work from previous, isolated observations. The date is crucial as it established the timeline for his subsequent findings, including seeing all four moons by January 13th and drawing firm conclusions by January 15th.
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