Apsis

Pronunciation: /ˈæsɪs/

Apsis (noun)

  1. A point in an orbit where a moving body is farthest from or closest to the object it circles.
  2. The point in an orbit where the orbiting object is nearest to the central body.
  3. The point in an orbit where the orbiting object is farthest from the central body.

Examples

  • The spacecraft reached an apsis where its path turned.
  • At the apsis, the orbit changes direction smoothly.