The work of Copernicus (1473-1543) is edited and released, as directed by the Congregation of the Index (reading forbidden in March 1616): nine sentences, which stated the heliocentric system as certain, were either omitted or changed.
Chemistry
The scientific method of reasoning is expounded by Francis Bacon in his Novum Organum.
Geology
Francis Bacon notices the jigsaw fit of the opposite shores of the Atlantic Ocean.