Celestial Sphere – Ecliptic Landmarks On the apparent path of the Sun (the ecliptic), the points farthest north and south of the celestial equator are known as:

Introduction / Context:
Astronomy uses the celestial sphere model to describe the Sun’s apparent motion. The ecliptic is tilted relative to the celestial equator, causing the Sun to reach extreme declinations north and south during the year—events that define the solstices and the seasons.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are asked about points on the ecliptic farthest from the celestial equator.
• These correspond to maximum positive and negative declinations of the Sun.
• The naming should match common astronomical terminology.

Concept / Approach:
The Sun attains its maximum northerly declination at the summer solstice (around June 21) and maximum southerly declination at the winter solstice (around December 21/22), with respect to the northern hemisphere convention. The equinoxes occur when the Sun crosses the celestial equator, not when it is farthest from it.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
A year’s declination plot shows sinusoidal variation with peaks at the solstices. Star charts likewise label these ecliptic points explicitly as solstices, confirming the answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Autumnal and vernal equinox: Points of intersection with the celestial equator (declination 0), not the farthest points.
• North/south celestial pole: Fixed points around which the sky appears to rotate; not on the ecliptic.
• None of the above: Incorrect, as solstices are exactly the extremes described.

Common Pitfalls:
Mixing up equinoxes and solstices. Remember: equinox = equal day and night (Sun on the equator); solstice = Sun stands still at declination extremes.

Final Answer:
summer and winter solstices