descending node

American  

noun

Astronomy.

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

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Etymology

Origin of descending node

First recorded in 1690–1700

Example Sentences

If the moon is between her ascending and descending node, the correction is positive, and we take the larger arc.

From Outlines of a Mechanical Theory of Storms Containing the True Law of Lunar Influence by Bassnett, Thomas

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

Moreover, they recur alternately at the ascending and descending node.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 8, Slice 10 "Echinoderma" to "Edward" by Various

Ketu is no plant but Hindu astronomers name the descending node of the Moon by that name.

From The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa, Volume 4 Books 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18 by Ganguli, Kisari Mohan