Astronomy Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Preparation Guide

Aristarchus of Samos is best known in the field of astronomy for being one of the first to propose a heliocentric model of the solar system, which posits that the Sun, rather than the Earth, is at the center. This was a revolutionary idea during his time in the 3rd century BCE, well before Copernicus formalized this concept in the Renaissance. Aristarchus's work laid the groundwork for future astronomers to explore the structure of the solar system, challenging the geocentric model that dominated ancient thought.

His heliocentric theory, however, was not widely accepted at the time and was overshadowed by the geocentric views of prominent astronomers like Ptolemy. Nevertheless, his contributions were significant in advancing the understanding of the cosmos and the relationship between the Sun and the Earth. Recognizing Aristarchus as a champion of the heliocentric theory highlights his pioneering role in a scientific development that would eventually transform astronomy.