# A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Astro*Dictionary by Michael Erlewine

 

 

 

 

1 article for "Periapsis"

Periapsis [Astro*Index]

A generic term. The point in an orbit that lies closest to the centre of gravitational attraction.

For bodies which orbit about the Sun,this point is called perihelion;
about the Moon, perilune;
about the Earth, perigee;
about Mars, perimartian;
about Jupiter, perijove;
about a star, periastron.

 

See also:
♦ Apoapsis

 

Astro*Index Copyright © 1997 Michael Erlewine