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periastron

/ˌpɛriˈæstrɒn/ noun · British & US
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What does periastron mean?

noun

The point in the orbit of a binary star system at which the distance between the two stars is at its minimum, or the point at which the star is closest to the center of the orbit.

Example

"The astronomers studied the periastron of the binary star system to better understand its orbital dynamics."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymologically related

Synonyms for periastron

Antonyms of periastron

Rhymes with periastron