ecliptic system

The ecliptic system refers to the imaginary plane that corresponds to the Earth's orbit around the Sun. It is the "path" the Sun appears to take across the sky throughout the year. In astronomy, we use this system to measure the positions of celestial objects, like planets and stars, by their coordinates relative to this plane. The ecliptic is crucial for understanding seasons, as it defines the angle of the Sun’s rays hitting Earth. It's also the basis for the zodiac, where we see constellations along this path that have significance in astrology and astronomy alike.