celestial sphere

noun
UK: /sɪˈlestɪəl sfɪər/
US: /səˈlestʃəl sfɪr/

  1. An imaginary sphere of very large radius centered on an observer; all objects in the sky can be thought of as projected onto this sphere.

    1. We can see stars on the celestial sphere.
    2. Ancient astronomers used the celestial sphere to map the positions of stars and planets relative to Earth.

  2. A conceptual tool used in astronomy for locating and understanding the positions and motions of celestial objects.

    1. The movement of constellations across the night sky reflects the rotation of the celestial sphere.
    2. Understanding the celestial sphere helps astronomers predict the rising and setting times of celestial objects for observation.

Synonyms

celestial globe

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "celestial sphere" in English means: An imaginary sphere of very large radius centered on an observer; all objects in the sky can be thought of as projected onto this sphere., A conceptual tool used in astronomy for locating and understanding the positions and motions of celestial objects..

The phonetic transcription of "celestial sphere" is /sɪˈlestɪəl sfɪər/ in British English and /səˈlestʃəl sfɪr/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "celestial sphere": celestial globe.

Example usage of "celestial sphere": "We can see stars on the celestial sphere.". More examples on the page.