What is the primary feature of the geocentric model of the universe?

The primary feature of the geocentric model of the universe is the belief that the Earth is the center of the universe. This model, which was widely accepted in ancient times, posits that all celestial bodies, including the Sun, Moon, and stars, revolve around the Earth. This perspective was influenced by observations of the night sky, where it appeared that the stars and planets moved around a stationary Earth.

In the context of astronomy, this model was formalized by ancient Greek philosophers like Aristotle and later expanded by Ptolemy, who added complex systems of epicycles to explain the observed movements of planets. This geocentric viewpoint dominated Western thought for many centuries until the heliocentric model, which positions the Sun at the center, gained acceptance during the Renaissance through the work of astronomers like Copernicus and Galileo. Understanding this foundational concept is crucial for exploring the historical progression of astronomical theories and how shifts in perspective can shape scientific knowledge.