Nicolaus Copernicus (dec 22, 1473 – feb 12, 1543)

Description:

Copernicus offered proof for a heliocentric (sun-centered) universe, which directly contradicted the Ptolemaic geocentric model, the official Roman Catholic view of the solar system. His heliocentric model would later be backed up by prominent scientists such as Johannes Kepler and Galileo Galilei. He fits with the OS theme because he spread his views on the configuration of the universe and challenged the traditional views of the Catholic Church, creating a break between religion and science.