Nicolaus Copernicus' heliocentric model, which posited that the Sun, rather than the Earth, is at the center of the solar system, was supported by several key figures in the scientific community after his initial proposal in the 16th century. Notable supporters included:
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Giordano Bruno - A philosopher and cosmologist, Bruno extended Copernican ideas and suggested infinite universes, which contributed to the acceptance of the heliocentric model.
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Johannes Kepler - An astronomer and mathematician, Kepler formulated laws of planetary motion that provided strong mathematical support for the heliocentric theory, showing that planets move in elliptical orbits around the Sun.
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Galileo Galilei - The famed astronomer used the telescope to make observations that provided evidence for the heliocentric model, such as the phases of Venus and the moons of Jupiter. His work helped to popularize Copernican theory.
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Isaac Newton - Although he came after Copernicus, Newton's laws of motion and universal gravitation provided a scientific explanation for why the heliocentric model was valid, further solidifying the transition from the geocentric view.
These figures were pivotal in the eventual acceptance and validation of the heliocentric model of the solar system.