The celestial sphere helps humans better understand the nature of the sky above their heads.
The celestial sphere is a tool astronomers have come up with in order to help people better understand objects in the sky, such as stars, planets and constellations. This tool is useful to those who just are beginning to take interest in astronomy. It is also an essential tool in the art of navigation.
Features
The celestial sphere is considered to the be the half sphere of the Earth that is directly above our heads. The point directly above one's head is referred to as the zenith. The points to the north and south are connected by what is referred to as the celestial meridian.
Misconceptions
Both the celestial sphere and the celestial meridian are imaginary tools that are only intended to help people better understand the sky humans see.
Features
As said before, the celestial sky includes the zenith and the celestial meridian. The celestial sky also includes two points that are supposed to represent east and west.
Significance
The points in the celestial sky help people to better understand the movement of the planets and stars that surround Earth. All objects located in the western section of the celestial sphere rise and set before the sun. All objects located in the eastern section of the celestial sphere rise and set after the sun. The celestial sky is also used as a tool in marine navigation that allows captains to pinpoint their coordinates by looking at the location of certain stars and constellations.
Fun Fact
The original idea for the celestial sphere was invented by Aristotle and expanded upon by Ptolemy.
Tags: celestial sphere, better understand, celestial meridian, help people, help people better
