Definition

1. Noun:
   • The point in the orbit of a celestial body (such as a planet or comet) around the Sun where it is closest to the Sun. This is a specific astronomical term for the periapsis (closest approach point) in a solar orbit.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Earth reaches its perihelion in early January each year.
  • The comet's brightness increases dramatically as it approaches perihelion.

Advanced Usage

• "At perihelion": Describes the state or event of being at the closest point to the Sun.
  • The spacecraft will collect vital data when the comet is at perihelion.
• "Pass perihelion": To go through the point of closest approach.
  • Mercury will pass perihelion tomorrow.

Variants and Related Words

• Apohelion (n): The point in an orbit around the Sun where a celestial body is farthest from the Sun. (The opposite of perihelion).
• Periapsis (n): The general term for the point in any orbit where the orbiting body is closest to the body it is orbiting. Perihelion is a specific type of periapsis (for orbits around the Sun).

Synonyms

• Closest approach to the Sun: A descriptive phrase for perihelion.

Antonyms

• Aphelion (n): The point in an orbit around the Sun where a celestial body is farthest from the Sun.

Noun

1. periapsis in solar orbit; the point in the orbit of a planet or comet where it is nearest to the sun