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- zenith, in astronomy, the point in the sky directly overhead; more precisely, it is the point at which the celestial sphere is intersected by an upward extension of a plumb line from the observer's location. Its position in the sky thus depends on the direction of the earth's gravitational field at the observer's location.
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zenith, point on the celestial sphere directly above an observer on the Earth. The point 180° opposite the zenith, directly underfoot, is the nadir. Astronomical zenith is defined by gravity; i.e., by sighting up a plumb line.
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In a scientific context, the zenith is the direction of reference for measuring the zenith angle (or zenith angular distance), the angle between a direction of interest (e.g. a star) and the local zenith - that is, the complement of the altitude angle (or elevation angle).
Nov 14, 2023 · The zenith serves as a reference point in the celestial sphere, aiding in the mapping of the night sky. It allows astronomers to chart the path of stars and other celestial bodies, providing valuable data about their movement and position. Moreover, the zenith is also crucial in the field of celestial navigation.
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An imaginary line in the sky that runs form the direction of the South Pole, through the zenith, to the direction of the North Pole. Objects to the east of the meridian are said to be rising, and objects to the west of the meridian are said to be setting.
What is the definition of zenith in astronomical terms? How does an object's position relative to the zenith impact its visibility and clarity? Why do astronomers prefer to observe celestial objects when they are near or at their zenith?
The zenith is the point in the sky vertically straight above the observer. It is the point where the observer's sight-line is perpendicular to the Earth's atmosphere, and hence where the smallest amount of air – termed the airmass – lies along it.
zenith, in astronomy, the point in the sky directly overhead; more precisely, it is the point at which the celestial sphere is intersected by an upward extension of a plumb line from the observer's location.