eclipsing variable star

Also found in: Dictionary/thesaurus, Hutchinson

0.06 sec.

eclipsing variable star

or eclipsing binary

Binary star in an orbit whose plane passes through or very near Earth. An observer on Earth sees one star pass periodically in front of the other and diminish its light through an eclipse. The star Algol, in the constellation Perseus, was the first such star recognized (1782); thousands are now known. By combining the brightness variations with spectroscopic information for both stars, astronomers can determine the mass and size of each star. See also variable star.

?Page tools

Feedback

Mentioned in

Encyclopedia browser

Full browser

Eckstein, Otto
Eckstine, Billy
ECL
eclampsia
eclecticism
eclipse
eclipsing binary star

eclipsing variable star
ecliptic
ecliptic coordinate system
eclogite
eclogue
Eclogues
ECM
ECMA

Free Tools:	For surfers: Browser extension \| Word of the Day \| Help For webmasters: Free content NEW! \| Linking \| Lookup box \| Double-click lookup \| Partner with us

All content on this website, including dictionary, thesaurus, literature, geography, and other reference data is for informational purposes only. This information should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. Terms of Use.