aphelion Definition
the point in the orbit of a planet or other celestial body where it is farthest from the sun.
Using aphelion: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "aphelion" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Mars reaches aphelion once every 2 Earth years.
Example
The distance between Earth and the Sun is greatest at aphelion.
Example
The planet's elliptical orbit causes it to have an aphelion and a perihelion.
Phrases with aphelion
the distance between a planet or other celestial body and the sun when it is at aphelion
Example
The aphelion distance of Mars is about 249 million kilometers.
perihelion and aphelion
the points in the orbit of a planet or other celestial body where it is closest to and farthest from the sun, respectively
Example
The difference in distance between perihelion and aphelion is called the eccentricity of the orbit.
Example
The next aphelion passage of Jupiter will be on July 4, 2022.
Origins of aphelion
from Greek 'apo' meaning 'away from' and 'helios' meaning 'sun'
Summary: aphelion in Brief
'Aphelion' [əˈfiːliən] refers to the point in the orbit of a planet or other celestial body where it is farthest from the sun. It is opposite to perihelion, which is the point where it is closest to the sun. The term is used to describe the position of planets and other celestial bodies in space. Phrases like 'aphelion distance' and 'aphelion passage' are used to describe the distance and time of reaching the aphelion point.
