Celestial Sphere (Noun)
Meaning
The apparent surface of the imaginary sphere on which celestial bodies appear to be projected.
Classification
Nouns denoting spatial position.
Examples
- The ancient Greeks believed that the celestial sphere was a physical entity that rotated around the Earth, carrying the stars and planets with it.
- The position of a star on the celestial sphere is typically specified by its right ascension and declination.
- Astronomers use the celestial sphere to map the positions of celestial objects, such as stars, planets, and galaxies.
- The celestial sphere is an imaginary construct, but it is a useful tool for understanding the relationships between different celestial bodies.
- The celestial sphere appears to rotate from east to west due to the Earth's rotation, causing the stars to rise and set in the sky.