What is the zero point of latitude in the galactic coordinate system?
Answer
The galactic plane
Astronomers utilize the galactic coordinate system to precisely map objects relative to the Milky Way's structure. In this system, the galactic plane is intentionally established as the fundamental reference surface, serving as the equator or the zero point of latitude. This framework is necessary because standard Earth-based coordinates (Right Ascension and Declination) are based on Earth’s rotation and equator, which do not align with the galaxy's actual rotational geometry.
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