Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

occultation

Noun

/ɒkʌlˈteɪʃən/

Definition

The action of obscuring or being obscured, particularly in astronomy when one celestial body passes in front of another, blocking it from view.

Examples

The occultation of Mars by the Moon was a breathtaking sight for astronomers.
During an occultation event, scientists can study the atmosphere of the obscured planet as it passes.
Occultation provides valuable data about the size and shape of celestial bodies.

Meaning

In astronomy, an occultation occurs when an object in space is hidden from view by another object passing between it and the observer. This phenomenon can refer to the Moon obscuring a star or planet, or a planet obscuring a distant star.