MERIDIAN CIRCLE Meaning and
Definition
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A meridian circle is an astronomical instrument used to measure the altitude and azimuth (horizontal angle) of celestial objects relative to a specific point on the Earth's surface. It consists of a large horizontal graduated circle, perpendicular to a vertical axis, which can be rotated along its axis to align with the celestial meridian. The celestial meridian is an imaginary line passing through the celestial poles and the observer's zenith, connecting the north and south points in the sky.
By accurately measuring the altitude and azimuth of celestial objects as they cross the observer's meridian (a vertical circle passing through the zenith and nadir), a meridian circle can determine the exact coordinates of stars, planets, and other celestial bodies. This information is crucial for astronomers in determining positions, distances, and movements of celestial objects.
A typical meridian circle is equipped with a telescope that can be rotated along the vertical axis and adjusted in altitude. Observers carefully align the telescope with the celestial object being observed and record the corresponding readings on the graduated circle. These readings are then used to calculate precise celestial coordinates, enabling accurate mappings of the celestial sphere and aiding in celestial navigation.
Meridian circles have been used extensively in observatories and astronomical research since the 18th century. They have played a significant role in advancing our understanding of celestial objects, facilitating positional astronomy, and helping to refine techniques in celestial mapping and timekeeping.
Common Misspellings for MERIDIAN CIRCLE
- neridian circle
- keridian circle
- jeridian circle
- mwridian circle
- msridian circle
- mdridian circle
- mrridian circle
- m4ridian circle
- m3ridian circle
- meeidian circle
- medidian circle
- mefidian circle
- metidian circle
- me5idian circle
- me4idian circle
- merudian circle
- merjdian circle
- merkdian circle
- merodian circle
- mer9dian circle
Etymology of MERIDIAN CIRCLE
The word "meridian" has its roots in Latin, from the Late Latin term "meridianus", which means "of midday" or "of noon". This term originated from the Latin word "meridies", which stands for "midday" or "noon". In turn, "meridies" is a combination of two Latin words: "medius", meaning "middle", and "dies", meaning "day".
The term "circle" originates from the Latin word "circulus", which means "a circular, enclosed place or space". It comes from the diminutive form of "circus", meaning "ring" or "circle".
Therefore, the term "meridian circle" combines the Latin word "meridianus" related to midday, and "circulus" related to a circular shape or space.
