Definition
A named waypoint on an instrument procedure, identified by the five-letter code AUBRN, used as a fix on a Standard Terminal Arrival Route (STAR). Like all five-letter intersection names, AUBRN is a unique identifier assigned by the FAA so pilots and controllers can refer to a specific point in the sky without ambiguity.
Plain English
A specific point in the sky on an arrival procedure, given the name AUBRN so everyone knows exactly which point is being talked about.
Context Anchor
Seen on STAR charts and in arrival clearances during instrument flight into a terminal area.
Derivation
Five-letter intersection names are pronounceable codes assigned by the FAA. They are chosen to be easy to say on the radio and unique worldwide. AUBRN is read aloud as 'auburn,' which is how it would be spoken in an ATC clearance.
Why Pilots Care
It tells the pilot exactly where to begin a descent step, speed reduction, or route change on the arrival.
Intuition Check
Do not think of “intersection” as a road crossing or a place where runways cross. In this context, it is an invisible named point in the sky used for navigation.
Example Sentence 1
ATC cleared the flight to cross AUBRN intersection at 10,000 feet as published on the STAR.
Example Sentence 2
After passing AUBRN Intersection the crew began the published descent profile into the terminal area.