Nicolaus Copernicus (1473 - 1543) was a polish astronomer, proponent of the theory that the Sun, and not the Earth, is at rest in the center of the Universe.
Accordingly, since nothing prevents the earth from moving, I suggest that we should now consider also whether several motions suit it, so that it can be regarded as one of the planets. For, it is not the center of all the revolutions.
Nicolaus Copernicus
For a traveler going from any place toward the north, that pole of the daily rotation gradually climbs higher, while the opposite pole drops down an equal amount.
Nicolaus Copernicus
Moreover, since the sun remains stationary, whatever appears as a motion of the sun is really due rather to the motion of the earth.
Nicolaus Copernicus
Of all things visible, the highest is the heaven of the fixed stars.
Nicolaus Copernicus
More stars in the north are seen not to set, while in the south certain stars are no longer seen to rise.
Nicolaus Copernicus
The earth together with its surrounding waters must in fact have such a shape as its shadow reveals, for it eclipses the moon with the arc of a perfect circle.
Nicolaus Copernicus
Yet if anyone believes that the earth rotates, surely he will hold that its motion is natural, not violent.
Nicolaus Copernicus
