Difference between revisions of "Periapsis"
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==Definition== | ==Definition== | ||
| − | + | The point at which a general orbit is closest to the center of mass is known as its '''perifocus'''. '''Perifocal distance''' or '''periapsis''' are the names given to the distance between the perifocus and the center of mass. | |
| − | The point at which a general orbit is farthest from the center of mass is known as [[ | + | The point at which a general orbit is farthest from the center of mass is known as [[apofocus]]. Celestial bodies have specific terms relating to the [[apsides]] of their orbits. Of particular importance is the fact that [[perigee]] is measured differently from the others. |
| + | ==See also== | ||
| + | *[[Perigee]] | ||
| + | *[[Periareion]] | ||
| + | *[[Perilune]]/[[pericynthiane]] | ||
| + | *[[Perihelion]] | ||
| + | *[[Perijove]] | ||
[[Category:Orbital Mechanics]] | [[Category:Orbital Mechanics]] | ||
Revision as of 02:25, 22 February 2013
Definition
The point at which a general orbit is closest to the center of mass is known as its perifocus. Perifocal distance or periapsis are the names given to the distance between the perifocus and the center of mass.
The point at which a general orbit is farthest from the center of mass is known as apofocus. Celestial bodies have specific terms relating to the apsides of their orbits. Of particular importance is the fact that perigee is measured differently from the others.
