perigee
UK: ˈpɛrɪdʒiː | US: ˈpɛrɪdʒiː
n. the point in the orbit of the moon or a satellite at which it is nearest to the earth.
The word "perigee" originates from Greek, combining "peri" (meaning "near" or "around") and "gee" (a shortened form of "gaia," meaning "earth"). It was adopted into Late Latin as "perigeum" and later entered Middle French as "périgée" before being anglicized. The term specifically describes the closest point in an orbital path to Earth, contrasting with "apogee" (the farthest point). This reflects ancient astronomical observations where proximity to Earth was a key measurement.
The moon appears largest in the sky when it reaches perigee.
Scientists calculated the satellite's perigee to optimize its communication range.
During perigee, tidal forces on Earth are slightly stronger.
The spacecraft adjusted its trajectory to pass through perigee efficiently.
Stargazers often anticipate perigee for brighter lunar observations.