What does selenocentric mean?
Selenocentric is a technical adjective describing anything that takes the Moon as its center of reference. In astronomy and space navigation, it may refer to a coordinate system or reference frame whose origin and orientation are based on the Moon. More broadly, it can characterize an idea or historical cosmology in which the Moon occupies the central position among celestial bodies. For example, a spacecraft's location near the lunar surface might be expressed in selenocentric coordinates, while an account of an ancient cosmology might be described as selenocentric. The word is distinguished from geocentric, which centers celestial arrangements on Earth, and heliocentric, which centers them on the Sun. Although selenocentric is uncommon outside specialist and historical contexts, it is useful for identifying a particular mathematical frame of reference or cosmological conception without implying that the Moon is actually the gravitational center of the solar system.
adjectiveRelating to or using a system of coordinates centered on the Moon. It can also describe a theory or worldview in which the Moon occupies the central position.
- Pertaining to an astronomical coordinate system or reference frame centered on the Moon.
- Describing a theory or historical worldview in which the Moon is the central celestial body.
"The navigation system converted the landing coordinates into a selenocentric reference frame."
"The mission control room displayed the rover's position using selenocentric coordinates."
"The essay discusses the selenocentric worldview of an early cosmological thinker."
Put the Moon in the driver's seat: selenocentric describes a map or worldview with the Moon at its center.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does selenocentric come from?
Selenocentric was formed in New Latin from Greek selēnē, meaning “moon,” and kentron, meaning “center.” Its development followed the established English pattern of combining celestial names with the suffix “-centric,” as in geocentric and heliocentric. Related words include selenology, selenite, selenium, and selenography, all derived from the same Greek root for the Moon.
Related word forms
How selenocentric is actually used
A specialist and relatively uncommon term, used chiefly in astronomy, space navigation, and discussions of historical cosmology. It is normally attributive and carries a technical rather than everyday tone.
Easily confused with selenocentric
A selenocentric system takes the Moon as its center of reference, whereas a geocentric system takes Earth.
A selenocentric model centers on the Moon, while a heliocentric model centers on the Sun.