2. Phases of the Moon Lab

4. The Celestial Sphere Model One way the celestial sphere model is used explains positions in the sky as seen from YOUR position on the earth.

5. The Celestial Sphere Model The sky is placed over you as a dome. The zenith is the point directly above you. The horizon is the rim.

6. The Celestial Sphere Model The distance above the horizon is called the altitude. The distance measured around the horizon is called the azimuth.

7. The Celestial Sphere Model A second way the celestial sphere model is used explains positions in the sky as seen from the WHOLE earth.

8. The Celestial Sphere Model Declination is the angular distance above the celestial equator. Right ascension is the distance around the equator starting at the vernal equinox.

9. Some Information on Stars

10. Appear to rise in the east and set in the west

11. Some Information on Stars Appear to rise in the east and set in the west Trace circular paths (except for Polaris)

12. Some Information on Stars Appear to rise in the east and set in the west Trace circular paths (except for Polaris) Move 15 0 per hour

13. Some Information on the Sun’s Path through the Sky

14. The path through the celestial sphere is called the ecliptic

15. Some Information on the Sun’s Path through the Sky The sun’s angle in the sky changes over the course of the year as does the points at which the sun rises and sets