Which is Better for Stargazing: Sea Level or High Elevation?

  • Thread starter sderamus
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In summary, the effect of elevation on observing stars is minimal until reaching high altitudes of around 50,000 feet. This means that a site at sea level with low light pollution may be a better choice for observing stars compared to a site at 3,400 feet with more light pollution from nearby towns.
  • #1
sderamus
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Does anyone have a table or formula one can use to calculate the effect of one's elevation above sea level on observing stars? I recall seeing something once upon a time showing how much of an increase in magnitude one gets the higher one goes. But then I recently read that the atmospheric effect is minimal until one gets up above like 50,000 feet or something.

The reason I ask is that I have a choice of observing sites - one is at sea level, but fairly isolated from light pollution. The other is on top of a mountain approximately 3,400 feet above sea level, but there are towns in the valley that add to light pollution (it is green on the North American Light Pollution Map for those of you familiar with that). Which would be a better observing site?

Thanks!

Sterling
 
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  • #2
The loss due to atmospheric absorption is less of an issue than light pollution.
 

1. What is elevation and why is it important in scientific observations?

Elevation is the height of a point above a certain reference level, usually sea level. In scientific observations, elevation is important because it can affect atmospheric conditions, such as air pressure and temperature, which can impact the accuracy of data collected.

2. How is elevation measured?

Elevation can be measured using various methods, such as using a topographic map, a GPS device, or a surveying tool called a level. These methods use different techniques to determine the height of a point above a reference level.

3. Can elevation change over time?

Yes, elevation can change over time due to natural processes such as erosion and deposition, as well as human activities such as construction and mining. Changes in elevation can also be caused by tectonic movements and volcanic eruptions.

4. How does elevation affect the climate of a region?

Elevation plays a significant role in determining the climate of a region. As elevation increases, the air becomes thinner and cooler, which can result in lower temperatures and different weather patterns. This is why higher elevations tend to be colder than lower elevations.

5. Are there any tools or technologies that can help scientists accurately measure elevation?

Yes, there are advanced technologies available that can help scientists accurately measure elevation. Some examples include LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), which uses laser beams to measure the elevation of the Earth's surface, and satellite imagery, which can provide high-resolution elevation data for large areas.

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