eclipsing binary

American  

[i-klip-sing bahy-nuh-ree] / ɪˈklɪp sɪŋ ˈbaɪ nə ri /

noun

1. Astronomy. a binary star with temporary decreases in apparent brightness due to the distinct orbits of its two component stars, which periodically pass each other, with one eclipsing the other.

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eclipsing binary British  

noun

1. a binary star whose orbital plane lies in or near the line of sight so that one component is regularly eclipsed by its companion See also variable star

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eclipsing binary Scientific  

/ ĭ-klĭp′sĭng /

1. See under binary star

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Example Sentences

The eclipsing binary Algol drops from maximum to minimum brightness in about 4 hours, remains at minimum brightness for 20 minutes, and then takes another 4 hours to return to maximum brightness.

From Textbooks • Oct. 13, 2016

For his PhD thesis, Shapley made major contributions to the methods of analyzing the behavior of eclipsing binary stars.

From Textbooks • Oct. 13, 2016

Here we see the light curve of a hypothetical eclipsing binary star whose orbit we view exactly edge-on, in which the two stars fully eclipse each other.

From Textbooks • Oct. 13, 2016

Dan Bruton at Austin State University has created this collection of animations, articles, and links showing how astronomers use eclipsing binary light curves.

From Textbooks • Oct. 13, 2016

It is virtually certain that RR Centauri is a case of an eclipsing binary system, and that the two stars are close together.

From Darwin and Modern Science by Seward, A. C. (Albert Charles)