HOUR CIRCLE Meaning and
Definition
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An hour circle, in astronomy, is a term used to describe a circle on the celestial sphere that passes through the celestial poles and is perpendicular to the celestial equator. It is primarily used as a reference for measuring the right ascension or the hour angle of a celestial object from the observer's meridian.
The hour circle is an imaginary celestial circle that divides the celestial sphere into 24 equal segments, each representing an hour of right ascension or hour angle. These segments are further divided into minutes and seconds for more precise measurements. Hour circles allow astronomers and navigators to determine the positions of celestial objects accurately and track their apparent motion across the sky.
The hour circle of a celestial object refers to the specific circle passing through the object's celestial poles and is parallel to the celestial equator. When an object is observed at a given moment, its hour circle represents the circle that intersects the celestial sphere at that particular time. Hour circles assist in locating objects in the sky, determining their altitudes, and predicting meridian transits.
Overall, hour circles are crucial reference points used in celestial navigation and astronomical calculations. By utilizing this concept, astronomers can precisely measure the locations and movements of celestial objects, aiding in various scientific studies and allowing for accurate celestial navigation techniques.
Common Misspellings for HOUR CIRCLE
- gour circle
- bour circle
- nour circle
- jour circle
- uour circle
- your circle
- hiur circle
- hkur circle
- hlur circle
- hpur circle
- h0ur circle
- h9ur circle
- hoyr circle
- hohr circle
- hojr circle
- hoir circle
- ho8r circle
- ho7r circle
- houe circle
Etymology of HOUR CIRCLE
The word "hour circle" has its etymology rooted in ancient Greek and Latin languages.
The term "hour" comes from the Old French word "hore", which was derived from the Latin word "hora". In Latin, "hora" referred to a specific period of time, generally understood as 1/12th of the day or night. The Latin word "hora" itself originated from the ancient Greek word "horā", which meant "season" or "time".
The term "circle" comes from the Old English word "circol", which was an adaptation of the Latin word "circulus", meaning "a circular figure". Latin borrowed "circulus" from the ancient Greek word "kirkos", which also denoted a circular shape.
Hence, when combined, the term "hour circle" refers to a circular figure or shape used to measure time, specifically dividing the day into hours.
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