| fixed star n. A star so distant from Earth that its position in relation to other stars appears not to change. Its movements can be measured only by precise observations over long periods of time. |
fixed star
n
1. (Astronomy) any of the stars in the Ptolemaic system, all of which were thought to be attached to an outer crystal sphere thus explaining their apparent lack of movement
2. (Astronomy) an extremely distant star whose position appears to be almost stationary over a long period of time
fixed star (f kst) A star or other celestial object so distant from Earth that its position in relation to other stars appears not to change over time. The fixed stars, which include virtually all visible objects beyond the solar system, form the background against which the motions of the Sun, planets, and other bodies of the solar system are measured, and they provide the reference for determining sidereal time. In actuality, no celestial object has a fixed position in relation to any other, and the movement of so-called fixed stars can be measured by precise observation over long periods of time. See more at proper motion. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | fixed star - any star in the Ptolemaic theory of planetary motion star - (astronomy) a celestial body of hot gases that radiates energy derived from thermonuclear reactions in the interior |
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