Regarding circular depressions, what is true about Galileo's use of the term 'crater'?
Answer
He may not have used the specific term as understood today
While the features Galileo observed—the numerous dark, circular basins—are certainly what modern science identifies as impact craters, the text clarifies that Galileo himself likely did not employ the specific nomenclature 'crater' in the context of impact structures. He described these dark patches generally as 'depressions' or noted they were part of the 'uneven and rough' surface, interpreting them as vast valleys or shadows cast by high terrain. The strong association of the word 'crater' specifically with lunar impact features developed later in astronomical history; Galileo's achievement was in recognizing the physical shape, not necessarily applying the specific modern term.
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