The observation by Tycho Brahe of a supernova in 1572 was significant because it
A) showed a parallax (relative apparent motion) that proved it to be more distant than the Moon.
B) showed motion in a circular orbit.
C) proved Kepler's three laws.
D) proved the heliocentric theory.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tycho Brahe's observation of a supernova in 1572 was significant because it showed a lack of parallax, indicating that the object was far beyond the Moon. This challenged the Aristotelian view of an unchanging celestial realm, where stars were thought to be fixed and unchanging. The observation did not directly prove Kepler's laws, the heliocentric theory, or show motion in a circular orbit, but it did contribute to the shift in understanding of the cosmos that allowed these theories to be accepted later.

The Observation by Tycho Brahe of a Supernova in 1572