In 1513, a work based on scientific grounds challenged the prevailing geocentric view (where the Earth was the centre of the world), which lasted for more than 1,400 years. It overturned the understanding of the universe and sparked a revolution in astronomy. The acclaimed manuscript on heliocentrism was written by a renowned Polish astronomer, Nicolaus Copernicus.

As the manuscript challenged the traditional view of the universe, Copernicus was encouraged by his peers to publish in 1543 a detailed book De revolutionibus orbium coelestium on heliocentrism, which proposed the replacement of the Earth with the Sun as the centre of planetary motions. In addition to being a profound astronomer, he was a doctor in canon law and also a physician, diplomat, cartographer and economist.

The exhibition guided visitors to revisit Copernicus’ journey of growth and his achievements in astronomy and various fields. Additionally, it also introduced an array of portraits, monuments, commemorative coins and stamps dedicated to honoring Copernicus in Poland and various other countries.

The exhibition was jointly presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland. It was jointly organised by the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Hong Kong.