descending node

American  

noun

Astronomy.

1. the node through which an orbiting body passes as it moves to the south (ascending node ).

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Etymology

Origin of descending node

First recorded in 1690–1700

Example Sentences

The truth, Brad realized, was that the Cluster Queen was drawing closer both spatially and on the descending node of the hyperspatial arc!

From Spillthrough by Galouye, Daniel F.

The same would be true if the earth were at D, and Venus at the descending node F. This general view of the flying spheres is full of interest.

From Recreations in Astronomy With Directions for Practical Experiments and Telescopic Work by Warren, Henry White

The ascending node is the point where it passes from the south to the north side of the ecliptic; the descending node is the opposite point, where the latitude changes from north to south.

From The Sailor's Word-Book An Alphabetical Digest of Nautical Terms, including Some More Especially Military and Scientific, but Useful to Seamen; as well as Archaisms of Early Voyagers, etc. by Belcher, Edward, Sir

Or had he fallen further down the descending node toward spillthrough?

From Spillthrough by Galouye, Daniel F.

When crossing the ecliptic from south to north the Moon is in its ascending node, and when crossing from north to south in its descending node.

From The Astronomy of Milton's 'Paradise Lost' by Orchard, Thomas Nathaniel