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Perigee Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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perigee

[หˆpษ›rษชหŒdส’i ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

astronomy, orbits

Perigee refers to the point in the orbit of the Moon or a satellite at which it is closest to the Earth. This term is derived from the Greek words 'peri' meaning 'near' and 'ge' meaning 'Earth'. The concept of perigee is crucial for understanding the varying distances and speeds at which celestial bodies move in relation to our planet. Knowledge of perigee can help in predicting phenomena like supermoons, where the Moon appears larger and brighter due to its proximity to Earth.

Synonyms

closest approach, minimum distance.

Examples of usage

  • The Moon reaches perigee approximately once a month.
  • During a supermoon, the Moon is at its perigee.
  • Astronomers observe the changes in the Moon's brightness at perigee.
  • The satellite's perigee allows for more detailed imaging of the Earth's surface.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Astronomy

  • Perigee occurs approximately every 27.3 days during the moonโ€™s orbit around Earth.
  • When the moon is at perigee, it can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter in the sky, often called a 'supermoon.'
  • This phenomenon can affect ocean tides, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides when combined with other factors.

Cultural Impact

  • In various cultures, the full moon at perigee has been celebrated with festivals and rituals, often symbolizing abundance and prosperity.
  • Artists and writers have been inspired by the beauty of the full moon at perigee, incorporating it into literature and paintings.

Science

  • The concept of perigee not only applies to the moon but also to satellites and other celestial bodies orbiting Earth, impacting their speed and trajectory.
  • Astrophysicists study perigee to understand gravitational effects on orbiting bodies, which helps in planning space missions.

Technology

  • The technology used in satellite positioning must account for the changes in distance due to perigee to ensure accurate data transmission.
  • In telecommunications, the configuration of satellite dishes may need adjusting during perigee to maintain signal strength.

Origin of 'perigee'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Greek words 'peri,' meaning near, and 'ge,' meaning Earth.
  • The term has been used in English since the early 19th century, originally referring to celestial bodies' closest approaches.

The word 'perigee' originates from the early 19th century, derived from the French term 'pรฉriGรฉe', which itself comes from the Latin word 'peri' (around) and the Greek word 'ge' (Earth). Initially, it was used in the context of celestial mechanics to describe the proximity of the Moon or other celestial bodies to the Earth. The use of 'perigee' in scientific literature correlates with the advancements in astronomy and the study of orbits, particularly after the development of telescopes and other observational technologies. As our understanding of celestial dynamics continued to evolve, the term became a standard part of astronomical vocabulary. Today, perigee is not only relevant in astronomy but also in satellite communications and space exploration, reflecting the ongoing interest in how space bodies interact at varying distances.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,515, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.