libration point (Meaning)
libration point (n.)
any one of five points in the plane of a system of two large astronomical bodies orbiting each other, as the Earth-moon system, where the gravitational pull of the two bodies on an object are approximately equal, and in opposite directions. A solid object moving in the same velocity and direction as such a libration point will remain in gravitational equilibrium with the two bodies of the system and not fall toward either body.
Synonyms & Antonyms of libration point
No Synonyms and anytonyms found
libration point Sentence Examples
- The libration points are gravitationally stable locations in space where the gravitational forces of two larger bodies, such as the Earth and the Moon, balance each other.
- The L1 libration point is situated between the Earth and the Moon, and spacecraft placed here can remain in a relatively stable orbit with minimal fuel consumption.
- The L2 libration point is located behind the Moon, and is often used for spacecraft that require a stable platform for scientific observations.
- The L4 and L5 libration points are located at the vertices of equilateral triangles formed by the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun.
- Spacecraft positioned at the libration points can benefit from reduced gravitational influence and can act as a stable base for extended missions.
- The James Webb Space Telescope is currently positioned at the L2 libration point to avoid interference from Earth's heat and thermal radiation.
- The ARTEMIS mission is planning to establish a permanent lunar gateway at the L2 libration point, which would serve as a staging area for lunar missions.
- The Chinese Chang'e 4 spacecraft successfully landed on the far side of the Moon in 2019, and is currently located at the L2 libration point.
- Researchers are exploring the potential of using libration points as locations for space-based solar power generation and fuel depots.
- The stability and accessibility of libration points make them ideal locations for a variety of scientific and commercial space endeavors.
FAQs About the word libration point
any one of five points in the plane of a system of two large astronomical bodies orbiting each other, as the Earth-moon system, where the gravitational pull of
No synonyms found.
No antonyms found.
The libration points are gravitationally stable locations in space where the gravitational forces of two larger bodies, such as the Earth and the Moon, balance each other.
The L1 libration point is situated between the Earth and the Moon, and spacecraft placed here can remain in a relatively stable orbit with minimal fuel consumption.
The L2 libration point is located behind the Moon, and is often used for spacecraft that require a stable platform for scientific observations.
The L4 and L5 libration points are located at the vertices of equilateral triangles formed by the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun.
