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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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To find the angular distance between two stars using their equatorial coordinates, Right Ascension (RA) and Declination (dec) are required. For closely positioned stars, the Pythagorean theorem can be applied, with dec in degrees and RA converted from hours to degrees using the factor of 15 degrees per hour, adjusted by the cosine of the declination. For stars that are farther apart, the calculation involves determining the great circle that connects both points. This method ensures accurate measurement of angular separation in celestial navigation. Understanding these calculations is essential for precise astronomical observations.
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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