Translational motion of stars & planets

In summary, the translational motion of stars and planets is not necessarily according to a polynomial sequence, but rather a transcendantal function. This is due to the vast distances involved and the fact that positions change very little over time. Scientists use models to predict the positions of specific stars or planets, which are constantly being refined with more observations. However, it may take several more millennia to truly see the accuracy of these models.
  • #1
mubashirmansoor
260
0
Hello,
I wanted to know if the translational motion of the stars & planets are according to a polynomial sequence or not?? if not then how can the scientists predict the position of a specific star/planet after a specific period of time??

Thankyou for your answer...
 
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  • #2
mubashirmansoor said:
I wanted to know if the translational motion of the stars & planets are according to a polynomial sequence or not?? if not then how can the scientists predict the position of a specific star/planet after a specific period of time??
Not necessarily polynomial, but more like a transcendantal function (infinite series). Why should they be a polynomial sequence?

The distances involved are so large that positions, in terms of angles, change very little from year to year, or decade to decade. I am sure models are refined as more observations are catalogued.

We have only been observing stars for several hundred years (at least the ones we could see with crude telescopes). Wait several more millenia to see how accurate the models are. But then again we will not be around to see.
 

1. What is translational motion?

Translational motion refers to the movement of an object in a straight line, without any change in its orientation or rotation. In the context of stars and planets, it refers to their movement through space in a linear path.

2. How do stars and planets move in translational motion?

Stars and planets move in translational motion due to the force of gravity. The gravitational pull of larger objects, such as the sun, causes smaller objects like planets to orbit around them in a circular or elliptical path.

3. What factors influence the translational motion of stars and planets?

The translational motion of stars and planets is primarily influenced by their mass, the mass of other objects around them, and the distance between them. Other factors such as the shape of their orbit and any external forces can also impact their motion.

4. How is translational motion of stars and planets measured?

The translational motion of stars and planets can be measured using various techniques, such as astrometry, which tracks the position and movement of objects in the sky, and spectroscopy, which analyzes the light emitted by these objects to determine their velocity and direction of motion.

5. Why is understanding translational motion important in astronomy?

Understanding translational motion is crucial in astronomy as it allows us to predict the movement of celestial objects and study their behavior and characteristics. This knowledge also helps in the development of space missions and exploration of the universe.

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