The proof that Venus orbits the Sun between the Sun and the Earth comes from observations and measurements made by astronomers over centuries. Here are some of the key pieces of evidence:
Visual Observation: Venus is visible to the naked eye as a bright object in the morning or evening sky, often referred to as the "morning star" or "evening star." Through direct observation, it can be seen that Venus goes through phases similar to the Moon, which is only possible if it orbits the Sun.
Orbital Motion: The observed motion of Venus across the sky follows a consistent pattern over time. It moves from one side of the Sun to the other in what appears to be an elliptical path. This behavior is consistent with the laws of celestial mechanics, which describe the motion of objects in the solar system under the influence of gravity.
Transit of Venus: Occasionally, Venus passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, resulting in a transit. These transits occur in pairs with more than a century between each pair. The timing and characteristics of these transits have been precisely observed and recorded, providing further evidence of Venus's orbit around the Sun.
Radar and Spacecraft Measurements: Radar observations of Venus and spacecraft missions to the planet have provided detailed measurements of its position, velocity, and orbit. These measurements confirm the orbital dynamics of Venus around the Sun.
Collectively, these observations and measurements support the conclusion that Venus orbits the Sun between the Sun and the Earth. The understanding of Venus's orbit has been well-established through the scientific study of astronomy and astrophysics.