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II. The Past of Mercury: Discovery and Early Understanding - Coggle Diagram
II. The Past of Mercury: Discovery and Early Understanding
1. Historical Observations
Geocentric vs. Heliocentric Models:
Mercury's movement was a key challenge for early astronomers, influencing the transition from the geocentric to heliocentric models.
Ancient Observations:
Observed by ancient civilizations, including the Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans.
Named after the Roman messenger god, Mercury, due to its fast movement across the sky.
Telescopic Observations:
Early telescopes revealed Mercury’s phases but provided limited information due to its proximity to the Sun.
2. Early Theories and Misconceptions
Surface Composition Hypotheses:
Believed to be a barren, Moon-like body.
Tidal Locking Theory:
Once thought to have the same side always facing the Sun (later disproved by radar observations).