Celestial coordinates
Celestial coordinates, Set of numbers used to pinpoint the position in the sky (see celestial sphere) of a celestial object. Coordinate systems used include the horizon system (altitude and azimuth), galactic coordinates, the ecliptic system (measured relative to the orbital plane of Earth), and the equatorial system (right ascension and declination, directly analogous to terrestrial latitude and longitude).
This article was most recently revised and updated by Erik Gregersen.
Citation Information
Article Title:
Celestial coordinates
Website Name:
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher:
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published:
10 November 2026
Access Date:
November 13, 2026