position angle

British  

noun

1. the direction in which one object lies relative to another on the celestial sphere, measured in degrees from north in an easterly direction

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Example Sentences

In the interval between 1718 and 1759, Bradley detected a change of 30� in the position angle of the two stars forming Castor, and was very nearly discovering their physical connection.

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

Their slow motion in position angle, however, was not all that could be desired.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 13, Slice 2 "Hearing" to "Helmond" by Various

Great care has been taken in determining the position, angle, and heights of the prominences in all cases.

From Autobiography of Sir George Biddell Airy by Airy, George Biddell

The magnitudes are both fourth, and the distance less than a quarter of a second; position angle changing.

From Pleasures of the telescope An Illustrated Guide for Amateur Astronomers and a Popular Description of the Chief Wonders of the Heavens for General Readers by Serviss, Garrett Putman

The circles for position angle and declination are read by micrometer-microscopes illuminated by the lamp L; the scales are illuminated by the lamp l.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 13, Slice 2 "Hearing" to "Helmond" by Various