1. Brooklyn School for Law and Technology Mr. Ross Brown
The Cycles of the Sky
Brooklyn School for Law and Technology
Mr. Ross Brown

2. The Celestial Sphere

3. Solar Ecliptic
The line around which the Sun appears to travel around the Celestial Sphere, passing through 12 Constellations – our Zodiac!
When Moon crosses this line, we see an Eclipse.
Our view of the constellations changes as the Earth revolves around the Sun.

4. Earth’s Rotation Axis and Seasons

5. Seasons, Solstices, and Equinoxes
Equinox – “equal night” spring or vernal is March 20, fall or autumnal is Sept 22
Solstice – “Sun static” June 21 and Dec 21.

6. The Sun’s Motion as Calendar
Zenith – Point in the sky directly overhead. Where is the Sun relative to your zenith throughout the year?
As Sun’s relationship to zenith changes throughout the year, it can indicate seasons, important for planning (farming.) The Sun’s changing position can be used as a calendar.

7. The Phases of the Moon
Determined by the Moon’s position relative to the locations of Earth and Sun. Full Moon is when it is beyond the Earth relative to Sun, thus we see a fully lit side. New Moon is closer to Sun, thus we see unlit side.

8. Solar Eclipse
Solar Eclipse: when the Moon passes between Sun and Earth

9. Lunar Eclipse
Lunar Eclipse: when the Earth passes between Sun and Moon. Next one is 23 March 2016