The words "right ascension and declination" are commonly used in astronomy to describe the position of celestial objects in the sky. The pronunciation of "right ascension" is /raɪt əˈsɛn.ʃən/, and "declination" can be pronounced as /ˌdɛklɪˈneɪʃən/. The spelling of these words can be confusing for those unfamiliar with astronomy terminology, which is why using the IPA phonetic transcription can help clarify the correct pronunciation. With this in mind, it is easier to communicate accurately when discussing celestial positions.
Right ascension and declination are celestial coordinates used to define the position of a celestial object in the sky.
Right ascension (RA) is a measure of the angular distance of an object eastwards along the celestial equator from a reference point called the vernal equinox. It is measured in units of time, with 24 hours representing a full circle. This time-based system allows astronomers to track the apparent motion of objects in the sky due to the rotation of the Earth.
Declination (Dec) is a measure of the angular distance of an object north or south of the celestial equator. It is similar to latitude on Earth, but instead of referencing the Equator, the celestial equator is used as the reference point. Declination is measured in degrees, with positive values representing positions north of the celestial equator and negative values representing positions south of it.
Together, right ascension and declination form a celestial coordinate system that enables astronomers to precisely locate and track objects in the night sky. This system is crucial for cataloging and identifying celestial objects such as stars, galaxies, and other astronomical phenomena. With the knowledge of an object's right ascension and declination, astronomers can easily communicate and share information about the positions of celestial objects, facilitating a better understanding of the universe.
The equinocial co-ordinates for defining the position of points of the clestial concave, and indicating their positions relatively to each other, the former being measured on the equinoctial from the first point of Aries east-ward, the latter on the secondaries of the equinoctial to the north and south poles of the heavens from 0° to 90°.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.