The phrase "Washakie Starfield" does not denote a formally recognized astronomical object, a specific celestial region, or an established scientific project within standard astronomical catalogues or official nomenclature.
Contextual Components
An understanding of this term can be approached by considering its individual elements:
- Starfield: In astronomical terms, a "starfield" generally describes a broad expanse of stars visible in the night sky. This can refer to a visually dense collection of stars or a wide-angle astronomical image capturing numerous stars within a specific celestial area.
- Washakie: This name is historically significant, primarily associated with Chief Washakie, a noted 19th-century leader of the Eastern Shoshone tribe. Geographically, "Washakie" is also the name of several locations in the western United States, including the Washakie Wilderness in Wyoming. Such areas are often characterized by their remote nature and dark skies, making them ideal for observing starfields with minimal light pollution.
Possible Interpretations
Lacking a formal definition, "Washakie Starfield" might be interpreted in several ways depending on context:
- It could be an informal or descriptive term for the quality and appearance of the night sky, particularly the dense star patterns, as viewed from a location named "Washakie."
- The phrase might be used in a non-scientific or artistic context, such as in literature, art, or local naming conventions, combining the historical/geographical name with celestial imagery.
In summary, "Washakie Starfield" does not have a standard, universally accepted meaning within the professional astronomical community. Its precise significance would be highly dependent on the specific context in which it is encountered.
