What scientific prerequisite transformed Galileo's fleeting sightings into a confirmed discovery?

Answer

Systematic tracking and documenting their orbital movement night after night.

Discovery required more than mere sight; Galileo systematically tracked the moons' positions over time, confirming their orbital relationship to Jupiter, which provided proof of orbit.

What scientific prerequisite transformed Galileo's fleeting sightings into a confirmed discovery?

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Why Was Galileo's Discovery Of Jupiter's Moons So Groundbreaking?

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