Spanish original · English

Hover or tap underlined Spanish terms to see their translation and exam tip.

La vertical del observador (recta perpendicular al horizonte que pasa por el observador) corta a la esfera celeste en los puntos denominados:The observer’s vertical (the line perpendicular to the horizon passing through the observer) intersects the celestial sphere at the points called:

Show the answer

Correct answer: a) Zenith and nadir.

Why it is correct

Extending the observer’s vertical (plumb line) in both directions intersects the celestial sphere at two diametrically opposite points: the zenith (directly overhead) and the nadir (directly underfoot).

Why the others are not

  • b) The elevated and depressed poles are where the celestial axis intersects the celestial sphere.
  • c) Aries and Libra are the intersections of the ecliptic with the celestial equator.
  • d) North and South are the intersections of the observer’s meridian with the true horizon.

How to work it out in the exam

  1. Observer’s vertical ∩ celestial sphere = Zenith (overhead) and Nadir (underfoot).

Where this question comes from

Try it: Sight reduction

Pending instructor review. Machine translation, not reviewed.