perilune

1 9.9

The point in a path around the Moon where a spacecraft is closest to the surface

noun
/ˈpɛrɪˌluːn/

Specialized

: periluna

During the mission, the perilune was calculated precisely.

Examples

The spacecraft adjusted its course to ensure its perilune would be above the designated landing site.
The spacecraft reached its perilune before beginning its descent.
Accurate calculations of perilune are essential for successful lunar missions.
Scientists monitored the probe as it passed its perilune at a distance of 100 kilometers from the Moon's surface.
The spacecraft reached its perilune just before it began its descent to the lunar surface.
During the mission, the team carefully calculated the perilune to ensure the orbit was safe for landing.
At a perilune altitude of 425 kilometers, the satellite captured stunning images of the Moon.

Synonyms

periapsis

vsperilune

Specialized

1 9.9

The point in an object's orbit when it is closest to the body it goes around

is limited to closeness around the Moon, not all orbiting systems

periselene

vsperilune

Specialized

9.9

A point in a satellite's orbit that is nearest the Moon

applies to any spacecraft or orbiting body, not only satellites

point of periapsis

vsperilune

Specialized

9.9

A place in an orbit where an object is closest to the planet or star it goes around

refers specifically to closeness around the Moon rather than any body

Antonyms

apolune

Specialized

1 9.9

The point in an orbit around the Moon that is farthest from the Moon

Surface Forms

perilune singular

perilunes plural

Morphology

perilune = lunar (semi-transparent) = peri + lune

The prefix 'peri-' meaning 'around' or 'near' combines with 'lune' (related to 'lunar'), but the specific astronomical context may not be immediately clear to learners.

Etymology

Perilune comes from the parts peri- ('near' or 'around') and luna ('moon'), like the peri- in perimeter and the luna in lunar. So, perilune is the point in an orbit that is closest to the Moon.