Caption: A schematic diagram of the scientific method.
The diagram shows the scientific method is a cyclic process of theory and experimentation/observation.
In terms of content, the results of the scientific method can be regarded a spiral---UPWARD/INWARD/OUTWARD---choose the appropriate metaphor.
Astronomy is a slightly special case in that we are primarily limited to detailed observation.
We cannot experiment on most astronomical objects.
And of course, Earth-based experimentation is vital to understanding the nature of astronomical objects.
Now the scientific method was vaguely practiced by people going far back in history, but as the rule for doing science, it had to be discovered. This discovery was in the 17th century. Maybe the first statement of the scientific method is as follows:
Credit/Permission: ©
David Jeffery,
2004 / Own work.
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sci_method.html.