Noun
(astronomy) the point in an orbit closest to the body being orbited
Source: WordNetA payload released at this point would go into a highly eccentric elliptical orbit, staying just barely clear from atmospheric reentry, with the periapsis at the same altitude as LEO and the apoapsis at the release height. Source: Internet
Powered slingshot main A powered slingshot is the use of a rocket engine at or around closest approach to a body ( periapsis ). Source: Internet
At periapsis: AU At apoapsis: AU The leisurely orbit of the pair has made it difficult to pin down their respective masses, and the accuracy of these values remain somewhat controversial. Source: Internet
The superior conjunction between Europa and Ganymede occurs when Europa is at periapsis. Source: Internet