apolune

[ ap-uh-loon ]

noun

, Aerospace.

1. the point in a lunar orbit that is farthest from the moon.

apolune

/ ˈæpəˌluːn /

noun

1. the point in a lunar orbit when a spacecraft is at its greatest distance from the moon Compare apocynthion perilune

apolune

/ ăp′ə-lo̅o̅n′ /

1. The point at which an object orbiting the Moon, such as an artificial satellite, is farthest from the Moon's center.

Word History and Origins

Origin of apolune¹

1965–70; apo- + -lune < Latin lūna moon, on the model of apogee, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of apolune¹

C20: from apo- + -lune, from Latin lūna moon

Example Sentences

We were alluding to a very elliptical orbit with a low perilune “above” the north pole and apolune “above” the south pole.

From Scientific American