Basic Astronomy Terms
Enter the number from the column to the left into the text box next to the appropriate word in the right-hand column.

1. the average distance from the earth to the sun (about 93 million miles; or 149.6 million kilometers) parsec
2. an object (natural or manmade) that is held by gravity and inertia in a circular or elliptical path around a larger object solar system
3. the tendency of a body at rest to stay at rest, and of a body in motion to stay in motion, unless acted upon by another force celestial body
4. unit of distance equal to 3.26 light years inertia
5. the path a satellite travels around a larger object space
6. a star and all of its satellites light year
7. the distance light travels in one year (about 5.88 trillion miles; or 9.45 trillion kilometers) gravity
8. an explosion that scientists believe occurred at the beginning of our universe; it is thought that after this explosion the first celestial bodies formed satellite
9. the force of attraction between all objects universe
10. the area containing all matter, energy, and space astronomical unit
11. the relatively empty area between and around stars, planets, and other celestial bodies orbit
12. a natural object surrounded by the vacuum of space The Big Bang



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