Since we previously discussed the definition of the ecliptic, you should realize the ecliptic for this new planet lies on its orbit and an easy way to visualize the ecliptic is to create a plane that bisects the star and the planet.

Yes!  Put that pretty plane up again, Mr. Brisban.

Here you go, Dick and Jane!  The following graphic shows you the answer to the above stated question.

Really Bad Graphic Number 5

We have learned some basics about the ecliptic but there is one other important item we need to cover concerning the ecliptic and its relation to the equatorial plane.  As you progress in your learning of astronomy, you will often see a picture that looks similar to the following:

Aesthetically Pleasing Graphic Number 6

In Graphic Number 6 you can see the earth surrounded by the celestial sphere.  You should also notice the blue circle, which is the projection of the earth's equator and the blue line with is the rotation axis of the earth.  But there is a new red circle in this diagram.  This red circle is the ecliptic.

Where's the pretty color plane, Mr. Brisban?

I've replaced it with a pretty color circle – it's the same thing.

Notice that the blue circle (representing the equatorial plane) and the red circle (representing the plane of the ecliptic) are off by 23.5 degrees.

Why are the two circles off by 23.5 degrees?

That's a great question, Dick and Jane!  It's because the earth's axis is tilted by 23.5 degrees relative to our orbit around the sun.  Another way to say that is that the earth's axis is tilted 23.5 degrees relative to the plane of the ecliptic.

Wow, Mr. Brisban, you're really good at this.

I know I am.  That's it for this episode of No Frills Help!