AstroGlossary - Z
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
zenith
The point in the sky directly overhead. The atmosphere is thinnest at the zenith, and thickest at the horizon. Thus, astronomers prefer to observe an object when it is closest to the zenith. zodiac
A ring of constellations that lie along the ecliptic, including Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpius, Sagittarius, Capricornus, Aquarius, and Pisces in order east of the vernal equinox. The constellations in the zodiac are often used by astrologers to help explain and predict events on Earth. Because the zodiacal constellations were defined 2,000 years ago, precession of the Earth's axis has shifted the position of the Sun relative to the zodiac signs so that they are off by one month, as quoted in daily newspapers. See also:
|
  |
Contact | About | Friends of McDonald | Sign up for Sky Tips
