0
In astronomy more than just one coordinate system is used. Each of these have a distinct purpose. For general use, most astronomers use Right Ascension and Declination. These are roughly equivalent to Longitude and Latitude respectively. The celestial equator is the same as the Earth' equator but then projected in the sky. The zero meridian is equivalent to the position of the sun on 21th March 12:00 GMT (per definition).
The definition used above is useful but not really intuitive when you start with astronomy. People tend to look more to the angle of an object above the horizon. That can be used. Then the second coordinate is the azimuth angle, or the angle from north. However, because of the diurnal motion of the Earth this position is not constant.
Another coordinate system used is the galactic system. Then the position of the centre of our galaxy (in the constellation of Ophicius) is used as the zero position. But this is mainly used by people interested in galaxy astronomy.
One can also use our solar system as a reference frame. Then the equator of the sun is the equator and all the planets move roughly on this line, aka the equinox. This is mainly of interest when you want to calculate planetary movements in the sky.
Conclusion: there is not a single coordinate system, but the first position system is the most widely used. Directly followed by the second.
What else can I help you with?
Why do astronomers use Declination and Right Ascension?
These are coordinates that define the position of an object in the sky (on the "celestial sphere"). They are used in a similar way to how latitude and longitude are used, on the Earth's surface.
What is the meaning of the consellation?
A constellation is a group of stars that forms a recognizable pattern in the sky. They are used as markers to help people navigate and locate celestial objects. In ancient times, constellations were also used to tell stories and myths about gods, heroes, and creatures.
What are three reference points used to describe a satr or planets position in relation to a persons postition?
The three reference points used to describe a star or planet's position in relation to a person's position are azimuth (horizontal angle), altitude (vertical angle), and declination (celestial latitude). These measurements help astronomers and navigators locate celestial objects accurately in the sky.
Point directly overhead?
The point directly overhead an observer is called the zenith. It is located at a 90-degree angle from the observer's position, directly in line with their vertical axis. Astronomically, the zenith is used as a reference point for celestial coordinates and observing objects in the sky.
How can one find star coordinates?
To find star coordinates, one can use a telescope or a star chart to locate the star in the night sky. The coordinates of a star are its position in the celestial sphere, measured in terms of right ascension and declination. These coordinates can be found in star catalogs or online databases.
Why do astronomers use Declination and Right Ascension?
These are coordinates that define the position of an object in the sky (on the "celestial sphere"). They are used in a similar way to how latitude and longitude are used, on the Earth's surface.
What imaginary line can be used to measure the motion of celestial object?
The celestial equator is an imaginary line in the sky that is used to measure the motion of celestial objects. It is a projection of Earth's equator into space and helps astronomers locate objects in the sky based on their declination.
What are the components of celestial sphere?
The components of the celestial sphere include the celestial equator (dividing the sky into northern and southern hemispheres), the north and south celestial poles (points around which the sky appears to rotate), and celestial coordinates (such as right ascension and declination) used to locate objects in the sky. Additionally, the ecliptic (the apparent path of the Sun) intersects the celestial equator at two points known as the vernal and autumnal equinoxes.
What is Orion's longituides and langitude?
Longitude and Latitude are used to refer to positions ON EARTH and are not used to locate the position of astronomical objects. In astronomy, a celestial coordinate system is a system for specifying positions of celestial objects. Orion's position is:- Right Ascension 5h , Declination +5°
How are right ascension and declination used to locate a star?
They are the celestial equivalent of longitude and latitude. If you are given the RSA and Dec of an object, you will be able dot find it on a chart. Or if you have a telescope that is computerised, you can input the coordinates and the telescope should go there automatically.
What is the imaginary sphere created by scientists that surrounds the earth?
The imaginary sphere created by scientists that surrounds the Earth is called the celestial sphere. It is used as a way to map and locate stars and other celestial objects in the sky as they appear from Earth's perspective. The celestial sphere helps astronomers describe the positions and movements of objects in the night sky.
What can be used to locate a point on a coordinate plane?
Its coordinates, possibly!
Does the celestial sphere exist physically?
No, the celestial sphere is a notional entity which is basically the "background" of stars against which the Sun, planets, etc., appear to move throughout the year. It is convenient for astronomical notation. The ancients used to believe there were some kind of spheres which stars and other celestial objects occupied and which was used to explain their movement.
What is a pair of numbers used to locate a point on a grid?
These are called coordinates.
Are there Coordinates in outer space?
You can impose a coordinate system, of course. Some commonly used coordinate systems are the one related to the Earth's rotation axis; the one related to the Ecliptic (the path of the Earth around the Sun); and galactic coordinates - related to our Milky Way.
What is used to locate points x y in the coordinate plane?
It is the straight line equation that can be used to locate coordinates of x and y on the Cartesian plane
What navigational tools did Cortes use?
He used celestial objects and compass.
