 |
|
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
|
|
aberration of starlight
The difference between the observed position of a star and its true direction; this is a combined result of the observer’s motion across the path of the incoming starlight and the finite speed of light.
There are three components of the aberration of starlight: annual aberration (up to 20.47") caused by Earth’s revolution around the Sun, diurnal aberration (up to 0.3") caused by Earth’s axial rotation, and the very small secular aberration caused by the motion of the solar system through space.
Related category
• OPTICS AND OPTICAL PHENOMENA
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)