Need Help Star Polaris (azimuth and altitude)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the azimuth and altitude of the star Polaris from a specific location in Middle Tennessee over a two-hour period. The original poster expresses confusion about the measurements they obtained and seeks clarification on the expected behavior of Polaris's position over time.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to verify their measurements of azimuth and altitude for Polaris and questions why the star's position appears unchanged. They inquire whether the position would differ on subsequent nights or over a month.

Discussion Status

Participants have provided varying insights regarding the expected altitude and azimuth of Polaris, with some suggesting that the original poster may have misidentified the star. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of Polaris's position in the sky.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of potential confusion regarding the definitions of azimuth and altitude, as well as the specific characteristics of Polaris as the North Star. The discussion reflects a need for clarification on these concepts.

Confused_Star
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The star that I am looking for is Polaris. I Need to know the azimuth and altitude of the star polaris for a 2 hour period checking it ever fifteen minutes. I am in Middle Tennesse. Tonight (09/6/08) I come up with an azimuth of 20 degrees and the altitude was 77-78 Degrees. Can someone tell me if this sounds right. Also what is the reason the star did not change? And if I was to look at the same star tomorrow night at the same time would its position be different or the same and why?...and the same goes for if a month from now would it be the same or different and why?...this would really help me...I will take anything i can get!

Confused_Star
 
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Welcome to PF!

Confused_Star said:
The star that I am looking for is Polaris. I Need to know the azimuth and altitude of the star polaris for a 2 hour period checking it ever fifteen minutes. I am in Middle Tennesse. Tonight (09/6/08) I come up with an azimuth of 20 degrees and the altitude was 77-78 Degrees. Can someone tell me if this sounds right.

Hi Confused_Star :confused: ! Welcome to PF! :smile:

hmm … in Tennessee, the altitude of Polaris (in the little bear) should be less than 40º …

you got the wrong star! :redface:

Have another go tonight! :smile:
 
And the azimuth should be 0. It's Polaris - the north star. By definition, it is always in the same place (plus or minus a half degree).
 

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