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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).
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.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
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define zenith astronomy term in science meaning chart pdf define zenith astronomy term in science meaning chart images Definition. The zenith is the point in the sky that is directly above an observer's position on the Earth's surface. It represents a 90-degree angle from all points on the horizon.
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.
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.
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.
Specifically, in astronomy, geophysics and related sciences (e.g., meteorology), the zenith at a given point is the local vertical direction pointing away from direction of the force of gravity at that location.
