5 - Astronomy Flashcards
What is the difference between a galaxy and a solar system?
A galaxy is a large collection of stars, planets, and other matter, while a solar system is the system of planets and objects orbiting a single star, like our Sun.
Which five planets are visible to the naked eye in the Southern Hemisphere?
Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Mercury.
How can you use the Southern Cross to determine the direction of true south?
Extend the long axis of the Southern Cross 4.5 times, and where this line meets the horizon is true south.
What is a waxing moon?
A waxing moon is when the visible part of the moon is increasing, moving from new moon to full moon.
What causes a lunar eclipse?
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is between the Sun and Moon, causing Earth’s shadow to fall on the Moon.
