Final Answer:
Copernicus (1473-1543) developed the heliocentric model of the solar system, proposing that the planets revolve around the sun. Isaac Newton (1643-1727) discovered the laws governing the physical universe, including the laws of motion and universal gravitation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Copernicus revolutionized astronomical thought by presenting the heliocentric model, where the sun, not the Earth, stood at the center of the solar system. This model challenged the prevailing geocentric belief and provided a more accurate understanding of planetary movements. Copernicus' calculations and observations led to the understanding that Earth and other planets orbit the sun in elliptical paths, fundamentally altering our comprehension of the cosmos.
Isaac Newton's contributions were monumental in shaping our understanding of physics. His formulation of the laws of motion and the law of universal gravitation provided a comprehensive framework for explaining celestial and terrestrial motions. Through meticulous mathematical formulations, Newton demonstrated how objects move under the influence of forces, establishing the principles that govern the behavior of objects in the universe. His mathematical calculations, especially in calculus, enabled the precise prediction of planetary motion and the understanding of the gravitational forces acting on celestial bodies.