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ps2983
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I aim trying to do a problem where I have 2 Equatorial Coordinates, and I need to find the angular distance in between this two points. Thanks in advance. Angular Separation Between Two Stars
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SUMMARY
The discussion focuses on calculating the angular distance between two stars using their Equatorial Coordinates, specifically Right Ascension (RA) and Declination (dec). For close stars, the Pythagorean theorem can be applied, with RA converted from hours to degrees by multiplying by 15 degrees per hour and adjusting for declination. For stars that are farther apart, a great circle method is necessary to accurately determine the angular separation.
PREREQUISITES- Understanding of Equatorial Coordinates (RA and dec)
- Basic knowledge of trigonometry, specifically the Pythagorean theorem
- Familiarity with angular measurements in astronomy
- Concept of great circles in spherical geometry
- Learn how to convert Right Ascension from hours to degrees
- Study the application of the Pythagorean theorem in celestial navigation
- Explore the concept of great circles and their significance in astronomy
- Investigate tools for calculating angular distances between celestial objects
Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and amateur astronomers interested in calculating angular separations between celestial bodies.
I aim trying to do a problem where I have 2 Equatorial Coordinates, and I need to find the angular distance in between this two points. Thanks in advance. - #2
lightgrav
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Do you mean RA and dec?
If the stars are close to one another you can use Pythagoras.
declination is already in actual degrees;
Right Ascension must be converted from hours to degrees,
(15 deg/hr) cos(dec) , to compensate for meeting at the pole.
If the stars are far apart, you'll have to make a great circle
that passes through them both.
If the stars are close to one another you can use Pythagoras.
declination is already in actual degrees;
Right Ascension must be converted from hours to degrees,
(15 deg/hr) cos(dec) , to compensate for meeting at the pole.
If the stars are far apart, you'll have to make a great circle
that passes through them both.
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