Point Of Periapsis (Noun)
Meaning
(astronomy) the point in an orbit closest to the body being orbited.
Classification
Nouns denoting spatial position.
Examples
- The spacecraft had its perilous journey capped off at the point of periapsis, as it was only about 300 miles away from the surface of Mars.
- Determining the precise point of periapsis is crucial for understanding the overall flight trajectory of the orbiting satellite.
- The gravity assist from Earth was captured with precision at the point of periapsis, boosting the entire mission to the nearby planet of Jupiter.
- Scientists around the world focused their telescopes on the comet at its point of periapsis to make some pivotal observations about its composition and size.
- Through thorough calculations, the space agency identified the safest point of periapsis for the Mars lander's deployment, but challenges still persisted.