Line-of-Nodes


In space and astronautical engineering, the Line-of-Nodes is an imaginary line that intersects the orbital plane of a celestial body at two points, one ascending and one descending. It is the intersection of the plane of reference (usually the ecliptic) with the orbital plane of the orbiting body. The ascending node is the point where the orbiting body crosses the plane of reference moving from south to north, while the descending node is the point where it crosses the plane of reference moving from north to south. The line connecting these two points is the Line-of-Nodes. It is an important concept in space mission planning and navigation, as it defines the orientation of the orbit and the position of the orbiting body relative to the reference plane.


Your Previous Searches
Random Picks

  • Reusable Spacecraft: A reusable spacecraft is a vehicle designed to be used for multiple missions, reducing the cost of space exploration by eliminating the need to build a new spacecraft for each mission. Reusable spacecraft are equipped with systems that allo ... Read More >>
  • Condition Monitoring: Condition Monitoring is the process of monitoring the health of a spacecraft or its components to identify any potential issues or faults before they become critical. It involves the use of various sensors and techniques to collect data on ... Read More >>
  • Gas Compression: Gas compression is the process of reducing the volume of a gas by increasing its pressure. In the context of space and astronautical engineering, gas compression is a critical component of rocket engines and life support systems. Rocket eng ... Read More >>
Top News

Check out this interactive map of the early universe, considered largest ever cr...

A team of astronomers have put together the largest, most detailed map of the universe ever created – and you can explore it now....

News Source: USA Today on 2025-06-12

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is about to totally transform astronomy...

With the ability to scan the entire southern night sky every three days, the huge Vera C. Rubin Observatory could be about to start solving the mysteries of the universe, from dark matter to Planet Ni...

News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-12

Trump's proposed science cuts will have huge consequences...

The universe will still be there to marvel at, despite brutal cuts set to hit NASA and the National Science Foundation's budgets. But the damage to future research will be long-lasting, says Chanda Pr...

News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-11

Starlink satellites are leaking radio signals that may ruin astronomy...

Our ability to study faint radio signals from when the first stars began to form is being threatened by SpaceX's Starlink satellites, which seem to be unintentionally leaking radio signals that overpo...

News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-09

Asteroids around Venus pose possible 'invisible threat' to Earth: Should you be ...

A swarm of large asteroids likely lurking around Venus could one day pose an "invisible threat" to Earth if left unchecked, astronomers have warned....

News Source: USA Today on 2025-06-06