[eastsider]

Well, Ptolemy proved mathematically that the earth is the center of the solar system.

Ptolemy did not "prove" the geocentric model; he merely demonstrated that the generally accepted geocentric model could be represented mathematically by a system of cycles and epicycles. (To my knowledge, only Pythagoras placed the earth other than in the center of the universe.) Nor did Copernicus "prove" the heliocentric model; here merely demonstrated that the heliocentric model was mathematically simpler than the geocentric model.

[Skooz]

he merely demonstrated that the generally accepted geocentric model could be represented mathematically by a system of cycles and epicycles.

Which was accepted as "proof" enough for 1500 years. I was using the word "proof" in the vernacular, and not as a research scientist would use it.