Aristotle's cosmology placed Earth at the universe's center, with celestial bodies revolving around it. He divided the cosmos into two realms: the changeable sublunary realm and the perfect superlunary realm, each with distinct characteristics and elements.
Celestial objects were thought to be made of aether , moving in perfect circles. Aristotle's model explained phenomena like planetary retrograde motion through complex systems, influencing astronomical thought for centuries despite its eventual disproval.
Aristotelian Cosmology
Geocentric Model and Realms of the Universe
Top images from around the web for Geocentric Model and Realms of the Universe Aristotle Archives - Universe Today View original
Is this image relevant?
Aristotle Archives - Universe Today View original
Is this image relevant?
Aristotle Archives - Universe Today View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Geocentric Model and Realms of the Universe Aristotle Archives - Universe Today View original
Is this image relevant?
Aristotle Archives - Universe Today View original
Is this image relevant?
Aristotle Archives - Universe Today View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Geocentric model placed Earth at the center of the universe
Earth remained stationary while celestial bodies revolved around it
Sublunary realm encompassed the area below the Moon's orbit
Consisted of four elements: earth, water , air , and fire
Subject to change, generation, and corruption
Superlunary realm extended beyond the Moon's orbit
Composed of a fifth element called aether
Characterized by perfection and unchanging nature
Structure and Boundaries of the Cosmos
Finite universe with a definite boundary
Spherical shape considered the most perfect form for the cosmos
Outermost sphere contained the fixed stars
Nested spheres within held the planets , Sun, and Moon
No concept of empty space or void beyond the celestial spheres
Celestial Objects and Motion
Composition and Nature of Celestial Bodies
Celestial spheres carried planets, stars, and other heavenly bodies
Aether (quintessence) composed all celestial objects and spheres
Transparent, weightless, and incorruptible substance
Explained the perceived perfection of heavenly bodies
Perfect circular motion characterized movement in the superlunary realm
Reflected the divine nature of celestial objects
Contrasted with the imperfect linear motion in the sublunary realm
Explaining Celestial Phenomena
Planetary retrograde motion puzzled ancient astronomers
Appeared as backward movement of planets against the fixed stars
Explained through complex system of epicycles and deferents
Crystalline spheres concept developed to support the celestial sphere model
Invisible, solid spheres carrying celestial bodies
Explained the fixed distances between celestial objects
Accounted for the transmission of motion from outer to inner spheres