What did Galileo say he discovered?  How did he defend his discoveries?

Galileo’s astronomical observations (briefly discussed on page 389 of the textbook) was met with resistance, particularly from the Church.  Galileo, though a scientist, was also very religious.  He found no contradiction between his religious beliefs and his scientific work. 

 

In 1615, he wrote this letter to the Grand Duchess Christina, a patron and supporter.