Point Of Apoapsis (Noun)
Meaning
(astronomy) the point in an orbit farthest from the body being orbited.
Classification
Nouns denoting spatial position.
Examples
- The spacecraft's orbit brought it close to its point of apoapsis as it rounded the far side of the Moon.
- For a highly eccentric orbit, the point of apoapsis is significantly farther away from the central body than the point of periapsis.
- At its point of apoapsis, the comet slowed to its lowest velocity relative to the Sun.
- By altering its velocity, the spacecraft was able to adjust its point of apoapsis and orbit into a more stable pattern.
- After reaching its point of apoapsis, the asteroid began its journey back towards the inner solar system.