[AntiGuv]

I see. Well, am I correct to guess that your most probable source is The Great Galileo Myth, since that's the only apparent reference to this incredibly obscure individual that seems to appear on the Internet? If so, at least that gives me a basis upon which to proceed. The only description given there for this individual is: "an eminent astronomy professor at Bologna." What makes you think that this describes a secular party? Do you have something more to go on than this description? Perhaps a different source?

The University of Bologna was the preeminent Catholic university of its era. Its administration was led by bishops and cardinals; the papal legates were its supreme authority (source: New Advent). So, there is no clear basis that I can see to conclude that this G.A. Magnini is a "secular party" unless there's something more to go on. The text linked above does appear to suggest that Prof. Magnini had not viewed Jupiter through a telescope, for whatever that's worth..

Whatever the case may be, this G.A. Magnini is a rather flimsy basis upon with to make such a sweeping insinuation. LOL

[Fester Chugabrew]

Whatever the case may be, this G.A. Magnini is a rather flimsy basis upon with to make such a sweeping insinuation.

I see. and was Aristotle, whose philosophy was the standard point of reference of the day, also an employee of the church?