10 World-Changing Inventions That Were Total Rip-Offs
7. Galileo Didn't Dream Up The Telescope
Besides being a key lyric in Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody and, thus, making up around 30% of the script of Wayne's World, Galileo's name is mostly synonymous with astronomy. The Italian physicist, mathematician, engineer and philosopher is credited with playing a key role in the scientific revolution during the Renaissance, helping pave the way for the world of today. Often referred to as the father of modern observational astronomy, Galileo is the man who confirmed the the phases of Venus (similar to the phases of the Moon, only further away), discovered the four largest satellites of Jupiter and had them named after him as a result, and the very first observation and analysis of sunspots. All of which he did through his telescope, often counted amongst the creations of the man who also came up with an improved military compass and other instruments. In fact Galileo didn't invent the telescope that honour must go to Hans Lippershey, whose early work in 1608 was perfected by the likes of Galileo.
Tom Baker is the Comics Editor at WhatCulture! He's heard all the Doctor Who jokes, but not many about Randall and Hopkirk. He also blogs at http://communibearsilostate.wordpress.com/
