How does the tilt and orbit of a planet affect its analemma shape?

In summary, an analemma is a figure-eight shaped curve that represents the position of the Sun in the sky at a specific location and time. Both Earth and Mars have an analemma, with Earth's being larger due to its longer orbital period and axial tilt of 23.5 degrees. The distance between Earth and Mars does not significantly affect the shape or size of their analemmas. The analemma can be seen from both Earth and Mars, but the Sun's position will appear different due to the different shapes and sizes of the analemmas. Additionally, all planets and celestial bodies with an axial tilt and elliptical orbit will have an analemma, with the shape and size varying depending on specific characteristics.
  • #1
Swankie
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How come the analemma for Earth is in a "figure 8" form and Mars is circular? Does it have to do with radial velocity?
 
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  • #2
From wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Analemma

On Earth, the analemma appears as a figure eight, but on other solar system bodies it may be very different[3] because of the interplay between the tilt of each body's axis and the elliptical shape of its orbit.
 

1. What is an analemma and how is it related to Earth and Mars?

An analemma is a figure-eight shaped curve that represents the position of the Sun in the sky at a specific location and time. It is related to Earth and Mars because both planets have an analemma, although the shape and size may differ due to their different orbital paths and axial tilts.

2. Why does Earth have a larger analemma compared to Mars?

Earth's larger analemma is due to its longer orbital period and its axial tilt of 23.5 degrees. This results in greater variations in the Sun's position in the sky throughout the year compared to Mars, which has a shorter orbital period and a smaller axial tilt of 25.2 degrees.

3. How is the analemma affected by the distance between Earth and Mars?

The distance between Earth and Mars does not significantly affect the shape or size of their analemmas. This is because the analemma is primarily determined by the orbital period and axial tilt of each planet, rather than their distance from the Sun.

4. Can we see the analemma from Earth or Mars?

Yes, the analemma can be seen from both Earth and Mars. However, due to the different shapes and sizes of the analemmas, the Sun's position in the sky will appear slightly different from each planet's perspective.

5. Are there any other planets or celestial bodies with an analemma?

Yes, all planets and celestial bodies with an axial tilt and an elliptical orbit will have an analemma. This includes all of the planets in our solar system, as well as some moons and other celestial bodies. However, the shape and size of the analemma will vary depending on the specific characteristics of each planet or body.

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