Relationship between Altitude and Latitude

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SUMMARY

The relationship between altitude and latitude is defined by the formula sin(alt) = sin(Lat) * sin(delta) + cos(Lat) * cos(delta) * cos(HA). In the southern hemisphere during winter, if the South Celestial Pole has an altitude of 20 degrees, the corresponding latitude is also 20 degrees. This relationship is crucial for understanding celestial navigation and the positioning of celestial bodies in relation to an observer's location on Earth.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of celestial navigation concepts
  • Familiarity with the Horizontal Coordinate System
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometric functions
  • Awareness of declination and hour angle in astronomy
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Horizontal Coordinate System in detail
  • Study the effects of declination on celestial observations
  • Learn about the calculation of hour angles in astronomy
  • Explore practical applications of altitude and latitude in navigation
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, navigators, and anyone interested in celestial mechanics and navigation techniques will benefit from this discussion.

Starboy>9000
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If you are in the southern hemisphere in winter and the South Celestial Pole has an altitude of 20 degrees, what is your latitude on earth?
 
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The celestial poles do not move much over the coarse of a year. If the celestial pole is 20 degrees above the horizon, you would be at a latitude of 20 degrees.
 

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