Fixedstar

A fixed star is an archaic term that refers to any celestial object that appears fixed in the sky, as opposed to the wandering stars or planets, which move noticeably against the background of these fixed points. The term originates from the ancient astronomers who observed the night sky and noted that most stars seemed to maintain their positions relative to one another, while the planets moved independently. In Hebrew, a fixed star is called כוכב קבוע (kókháv kvútsa). In Latin, it is known as stella fixa, and in Arabic, it is referred to as نجم ثابت (najm thābit). Historically, the distinction between fixed stars and planets was crucial in the development of astronomical theories, including the geocentric model proposed by Claudius Ptolemy. Modern astronomy no longer uses the term "fixed star" in a technical sense, as it is now understood that all stars, including the Sun, move relative to one another, albeit very slowly over vast timescales.