Coordinates in Astronomy Flashcards
1
Q
How are the positions of stars measured?
A
By angles seen from earth.
2
Q
What are the two fixed positions that astronomers have picked to measure from?
A
The Pole Star- Directly above the North Pole so it appears not to move.
The Celestial Equator- Plane running across the sky, extending from the earth’s equator
3
Q
What is Declination?
A
One of the two angles used to measure positions in the sky. Celestial latitude- Measured in degrees.
4
Q
What is Right Ascension?
A
One of the two angles used to measure positions in the sky. Celestial longitude- Measured in degrees or time
5
Q
Why can Right Ascension be measured in time?
A
Because the earth turns through 360 degrees every 24 hours. So right ascension increases the further east on the sky you go.
