noun
- the astronomical theory that the sun is at the center of the solar system and that the planets orbit around it
Usage: also called the heliocentric model or heliocentric theory
Examples
- Copernicus developed heliocentrism as an alternative to the geocentric model.
- The acceptance of heliocentrism marked a major shift in scientific understanding.
- Galileo's observations with the telescope provided evidence supporting heliocentrism.
- Heliocentrism eventually replaced the older belief that Earth was the center of the universe.
- Modern astronomy is based on heliocentrism and the laws of planetary motion.