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General astronomy discussion

opposition, apogee, perigee
Last post 07-19-2008 10:41 AM by Centaur. 1 replies.
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  • 07-19-2008 09:55 AM

    opposition, apogee, perigee

    I am a new backyard astronomer.  I do not know the following,,

    opposition

    apogee

    perigee

    What do these three mean?

  • 07-19-2008 10:41 AM In reply to

    Re: opposition, apogee, perigee

    Welcome to the discussion group, rwhaley.

    Opposition refers to two objects appearing opposite each other on the celestial sphere.  Usually one of them is the Sun.  A Full Moon is in opposition to the Sun.  On 2008 JUL 09 Jupiter was in opposition to the Sun, rising at sunset and setting at sunrise.

    Apogee occurs at the time during the month at which the Moon in its eccentric orbit is furthest from Earth.  The term also applies to artificial satellites that orbit the Earth.  Perigee is the opposite of apogee.

     

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    For astronomical graphics, including
    monthly wallpaper calendar, visit:
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    Curt Renz - "Centaur"
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