Astrometry is a term that is not commonly used in everyday language. It is a technical term that is used in astronomy and space science. This term refers to the measurement of the positions and movements of celestial bodies, such as stars, planets, and asteroids. Astrometry is an essential tool for astronomers to understand the universe better.
Definitions
Astrometry is the branch of astronomy that deals with the precise measurement of the positions, distances, and motions of celestial objects. Astrometry involves the use of telescopes and other instruments to study the positions and movements of celestial objects. This field of study is essential in determining the orbits of planets, asteroids, and comets.
Origin
The origin of astrometry can be traced back to ancient times. The ancient Greeks were the first to study the stars and their movements. They developed the first astronomical instruments, such as the astrolabe, which was used to measure the positions of the stars. During the Renaissance, astronomers like Tycho Brahe and Johannes Kepler made significant contributions to the field of astrometry.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, astrometry is defined as “the measurement of the positions and motions of celestial objects.” The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines astrometry as “the branch of astronomy concerned with the measurement of the positions and motions of celestial bodies.”
Associations
Astrometry is closely associated with astronomy and space science. It is used by astronomers to study the positions and movements of celestial objects. Astrometry is also used in space exploration to navigate spacecraft and study the orbits of planets and asteroids.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of astrometry include celestial mechanics, positional astronomy, and astrophysics.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of astrometry. However, some related terms that are opposite in meaning include astrology, which is the study of the influence of celestial bodies on human affairs, and geodesy, which is the study of the shape and size of the Earth.
The same root words
The root word of astrometry is “astro,” which means star or celestial body. Other words that share this root include astrology, astronaut, astronomy, and astrophysics.
Example Sentences
- Astrometry is essential in determining the orbits of planets and asteroids.
- The astrometry data collected by the telescope helped astronomers discover a new planet.
- The spacecraft used astrometry to navigate its way through the solar system.
- The study of astrometry has led to a better understanding of the universe.
- The astrometry measurements were accurate to within a few milliarcseconds.