The equations to convert x,y,z to longitude and lattitude?

In summary, the conversation revolves around converting x,y,z coordinates to longitude and latitude (or right ascension and declination) and the accuracy of the conversion. The Earth is not a perfect sphere and the standard practice is to model it as an ellipsoid. Different ellipsoids may be used, with WGS84 being a popular choice.
  • #1
CosmicVoyager
164
0
Greetings,

I am trying to figure out how to convert an x,y,z coordinate to longitude and latitude (or right ascension and declination). Center of Earth is origin, of course.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
How accurately do you need it?
Are you just assuming a sphere or do you need an accurate geoid model, or real world DTM data?
 
  • #3
i now know that what i am looking for is called polar coordinates.

x,y,z to polar coordinates

i have only been able to find x,y to polar
 
  • #4
Look up spherical coordinates.
 
  • #5
nicksauce said:
Look up spherical coordinates.

Thanks :smile:
 
  • #6
nicksauce said:
Look up spherical coordinates.
Those are not the correct equations for converting x,y,z to latitude and longitude. The Earth is not a sphere; latitude is not a spherical measure.

They are close, however. Whether they are close enough or not, we can't tell. CosmicVoyager never answered mgb_phys' question.
 
  • #7
D H said:
Those are not the correct equations for converting x,y,z to latitude and longitude. The Earth is not a sphere; latitude is not a spherical measure.

They are close, however. Whether they are close enough or not, we can't tell. CosmicVoyager never answered mgb_phys' question.

Good point.
 
  • #8

1. What are the equations to convert x,y,z coordinates to longitude and latitude?

The equations to convert x,y,z coordinates to longitude and latitude are known as the Geodetic Equations. These equations involve a series of trigonometric calculations and are used to determine the precise location of a point on the Earth's surface.

2. Why is it necessary to convert x,y,z coordinates to longitude and latitude?

Converting x,y,z coordinates to longitude and latitude is necessary because these two systems use different reference points and measurements. Longitude and latitude use the Earth's geographic poles and equator as reference points, while x,y,z coordinates use a Cartesian coordinate system based on a specific origin point. Converting between the two allows for more accurate location data.

3. How do the equations to convert x,y,z to longitude and latitude differ for different locations on Earth?

The equations to convert x,y,z to longitude and latitude do not change based on the location on Earth. However, the values used for constants such as the Earth's radius and the location of the origin point may differ slightly depending on the reference ellipsoid being used. These ellipsoids are designed to best fit the shape of the Earth at different latitudes.

4. Can I use a calculator or software to perform these conversions?

Yes, there are many online calculators and software programs available that can perform these conversions quickly and accurately. Some may even allow you to input your own reference ellipsoid and origin point values for more precise results.

5. Are there any limitations to using these equations for converting x,y,z to longitude and latitude?

While the equations for converting x,y,z to longitude and latitude are generally accurate, there may be some limitations. These equations assume a perfect spherical or ellipsoidal shape for the Earth, which is not completely accurate. Additionally, small discrepancies in the reference ellipsoid used or the origin point values may result in slightly different coordinates. However, for most practical applications, these equations provide precise enough results.

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