Coordinate systems in the solar system?

In summary, the conversation discusses the existence and use of celestial coordinate systems for locating planets in the sky. The normal system uses right ascension and declination, while a sun-centered system would use time to determine coordinates. These coordinates can be found through planetarium programs or reference systems such as the International Celestial Reference Frame and Standards of Fundamental Astronomy. The current coordinates for Mars are RA: 8:39 and Dec: 23 degrees 3'. Additionally, the conversation mentions some interesting images and resources related to celestial coordinate systems.
  • #1
dotancohen
106
1
I have read the wikipedia page regarding Celestial coordinate systems and searched on google, but I cannot find any coordinate systems which describe a planet's position in it's orbit. Does there exist such a system?

An example use of this system would be in locating the planets in the sky. I know that Mars is near opposition now, so I would expect that Mars' coordinates in such a system to be whatever Earth's position is +~180°.
 
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  • #2
That's an Earth centered coordinate system, not a sun centered coordinate system. And it isn't how it typically works. The normal one uses the holds the background of stars fixed. It uses right ascention and declination. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celestial_coordinate_system

What you suggest would hold the sun fixed. I guess something based on time would qualify, as the sun is due south at noon (therefore, Mars is due south at midnight right now).
 
  • #3
I did read that wikipedia article. But where can these coordinates for celestial objects be found, then? What is Mars' value at the moment, and where could I have looked that up myself?

Thanks.
 
  • #4
Any decent planetarium program will give you the coordinates of an object. I use Starry Night.

At this moment, Mars is at:
RA: 8:39
Dec: 23 degrees 3'
 
  • #5
dotancohen said:
I did read that wikipedia article. But where can these coordinates for celestial objects be found, then? What is Mars' value at the moment, and where could I have looked that up myself?
You might also want to read up on the International Celestial Reference Frame (ICRF, see http://rorf.usno.navy.mil/ICRF ) and Standards of Fundamental Astronomy (SOFA, see http://www.iausofa.org/index.html).

As for coordinates for various bodies, the Horizons system at JPL is a very good reference. See http://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/?horizons.
 
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  • #6
just something interesting:

http://www.atticusrarebooks.com/jferg11.jpg


http://www.atticusrarebooks.com/jferg8.jpg

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230432371491
 
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FAQ: Coordinate systems in the solar system?

What is a coordinate system in the solar system?

A coordinate system in the solar system is a way of defining and measuring the position of objects in space. It uses a set of axes, usually the x, y, and z axes, to determine the location of an object based on its distance and direction from a specific point or origin.

Why are coordinate systems important in the study of the solar system?

Coordinate systems are important in the study of the solar system because they allow scientists to accurately track and measure the location and movement of celestial bodies. This information is crucial in understanding the dynamics and interactions within the solar system.

How many coordinate systems are used in the solar system?

There are several coordinate systems used in the solar system, depending on the purpose and location of the observer. The most commonly used are the ecliptic coordinate system, equatorial coordinate system, and galactic coordinate system.

How do coordinate systems differ between planets in the solar system?

Coordinate systems may differ between planets in the solar system due to variations in the planet's rotation and orbit. For example, the equatorial coordinate system on Earth is based on its axis of rotation, while the equatorial coordinate system on Mars is based on its orbital plane.

How do scientists determine the coordinates of objects in the solar system?

Scientists determine the coordinates of objects in the solar system using precise measurements of their position and angle relative to the chosen coordinate system. This can be done through telescopic observations, spacecraft missions, and mathematical calculations based on orbital data.

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