Definition

The ANGULAR DISTANCE of a body of the SOLAR SYSTEM from the SUN. The angle at the EARTH between lines to the SUN and another CELESTIAL BODY of the SOLAR SYSTEM. The term is usually used in connection with INFERIOR PLANETS. The greatest elongation of such a body is its maximum ANGULAR DISTANCE from the SUN, as observed from the EARTH. The position of a STAR when its AZIMUTH east or west of the MERIDIAN is greatest.