Final answer:
Copernicus' model predicted that Venus should exhibit all the phases like the Moon because it orbits the sun, which was later confirmed through Galileo's observations, contrasting the limited phases suggested by the geocentric model.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Copernicus' heliocentric model, Venus should display the full range of phases similar to those of the Moon. This is because Venus orbits the Sun, and as such, we would observe different portions of its illuminated side as it moves around its orbit. As predicted by Copernicus and later observed by Galileo, Venus shows crescent, gibbous, full, and new phases. Copernicus' model states that we would not see the full phase of Venus when it is behind the Sun in relation to Earth. This is in contrast to Ptolemy's geocentric model, where the phases of Venus would not match the sequence or variety observed through telescopic viewing.