What was the primary observation technique Galileo used to deduce the objects orbited Jupiter?
Answer
Observing their apparent motion over successive nights relative to the planet
Galileo established that the 'stars' were not fixed background elements by meticulously tracking their positions relative to Jupiter across multiple successive nights. This observation revealed that their positions shifted regularly—sometimes causing them to disappear behind Jupiter or reappear from its front—which is the characteristic behavior of satellites locked in an orbit around a primary body. This daily charting allowed him to deduce the orbital mechanics linking these objects directly to Jupiter itself, differentiating them from stationary stars.
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