Scientific Terms

Primary Mirror

The primary mirror is defined as the light gathering, or refracting surface of a telescope. It is also called as the telescope’s objective. In a reflecting telescope, it either uses a single or a pair of curved mirrors to reflect light in order to form an image based on the location where the said telescope […]

Primary Mirror Read More »

Protoplanet

In astronomy, the term protoplanet illustrates a type of planet, included in the planet formation theory. This term is defined as the larger planetary embryos within protoplanetary discs that may have gone through the process of internal melting to produce a different planetary interior. It is also believed that these types of celestial bodies are

Protoplanet Read More »

Position Angle

The position angle refers to the relative measurement of the secondary object from the primary one on the same celestial sphere, often used to measure and observe binary or double stars. The position angle is measured in degrees in a counter clockwise direction starting from the north celestial pole. It is usually abbreviated to PA.

Position Angle Read More »

Planetisimals

One theory of planetary formation cites small celestial objects known as planetesimals to be the forbearers of planets. They are formed by the combination of dust, rock and other materials moving within the solar nebula. Through a process called ‘accretion’, these small microscopic particles collide and merge to form larger bodies measuring up to a

Planetisimals Read More »

Plasmasphere

The plasmasphere is that region of dense, cold plasma surrounding the Earth. It is a part of the plasma-containing magnetosphere and is located just outside the upper ionosphere, extending to about 8000 to 25,000 miles into space. This donut-shaped volt of energy around our planet is the result of a process jumpstarted by the Sun’s

Plasmasphere Read More »

Scroll to Top