Definitions of right ascension:

  • noun:   an arc of the celestial equator eastward from the vernal equinox
  • noun:   (astronomy) the angular distance eastward along the celestial equator from the vernal equinox to the intersection of the hour circle that passes through the body; expressed in hours and minutes and second; used with declination to specify positions on the celestial sphere
    Example: "One hour of right ascension equals fifteen degrees"