Question 1630Navigation General

The correct answer is C) parallel of declination. The small circle of the celestial sphere parallel to the celestial equator, and transcribed by the daily motion of a celestial body, is called the parallel of declination. This is because the declination of a celestial body is the angular distance north or south of the celestial equator, and the parallel of declination is the small circle that represents the body's daily motion around this constant declination. The other options are incorrect because: A) an hour circle is a great circle passing through the celestial poles, B) a vertical circle is a great circle passing through the zenith and nadir, and D) a parallel of altitude is a small circle parallel to the horizon.