Perihelion: meaning, definitions and examples

astronomy term

Perihelion refers to the point in the orbit of a celestial body, such as a planet or comet, where it is closest to the Sun. This occurs due to the elliptical shape of orbits as described by Kepler's laws of planetary motion. During this closest approach, the celestial body experiences increased gravitational pull from the Sun and typically moves faster in its orbit. The exact timing of perihelion can differ for each orbiting body and is important for understanding seasonal changes on planets.

solar closest approach

Examples of usage

• Earth reaches perihelion every January.

• Comets can have varying perihelion distances.

• The perihelion effect influences the climate on Earth.

• Astronomers calculate perihelion for orbital predictions.