Dictionary term
Apoapsis
Direct answer
Apoapsis is the point in a bound orbit farthest from the body or barycenter at its focus.
It is the generic farthest point of an orbit.
It is the generic farthest point of an orbit.
A scientific orientation to scale, light, or motion; the article supplies the precise definition.Quick reference
- Use when
- Use it only for a bound orbit with a meaningful farthest point.
- Do not use it for
- Parabolic and hyperbolic trajectories have no finite apoapsis.
- Reference category
- Astronomy & Skywatching
- Related terms
- Synodic Period, Periapsis, Perihelion, Aphelion
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The story behind Apoapsis
General celestial-mechanics terminology extended planet-specific apsis names.
Apoapsis: fact and faith, kept distinct
This is a factual astronomy reference. It can support wonder at the created order without becoming a claim of fate, worship, or private revelation.
Apoapsis in numerology
Apoapsis is not a numerology claim. Any numbers attached to it should retain their ordinary scientific, calendrical, navigational, or historical meaning unless a separate symbolic interpretation is clearly labeled.
Apoapsis at work: an example
A satellite at apoapsis has its maximum orbital radius and often its lowest speed.
Where interpretation stops
Apoapsis is presented as sourced astronomy, calendrical, Earth-science, cultural, or instrument-history reference. Definitions should distinguish measured phenomena from civil convention and historical interpretation, preserve location and time dependencies, and avoid turning factual sky data into a deterministic personal claim.
Sources and editorial method
Research references used for this entry include:
- NASA Science: Orbits and Kepler’s Laws - NASA explanation of orbital ellipses, orbital periods, and Kepler’s laws of planetary motion.
- U.S. Naval Observatory: Astronomical Almanac Glossary - Definitions for astronomical coordinates, time, reference systems, and observable phenomena.
- Source
- The Great Almanac Dictionary
- Category
- Astronomy & Skywatching
- Also appears in
- Astronomy & Skywatching
- Aliases
- None listed
- Last updated
- 2026-07-16
Find an orbit’s farthest reach
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Common questions
What is Apoapsis?
Apoapsis is the point in a bound orbit farthest from the body or barycenter at its focus.
How is Apoapsis used in an almanac?
Use it only for a bound orbit with a meaningful farthest point.
What should I avoid when interpreting Apoapsis?
Parabolic and hyperbolic trajectories have no finite apoapsis.
