What properties allow me to see past Earth's curvature?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the observation of a 193-foot building from a distance of 24 miles, despite calculations indicating that approximately 270 feet of the building should be obscured by Earth's curvature. The viewer's eye level was approximately 9 feet above sea level, while the building's base was about 15 feet above sea level. The phenomenon of refraction, specifically looming, is suggested as a possible explanation for this visibility anomaly. A calculator tool was referenced to confirm the curvature calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Earth's curvature calculations
  • Familiarity with atmospheric refraction concepts
  • Basic knowledge of Imperial measurement units
  • Ability to use online curvature calculators
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of atmospheric refraction and its effects on visibility
  • Explore the concept of looming and its implications in long-distance viewing
  • Learn how to accurately perform Earth curvature calculations
  • Investigate the use of online tools for curvature and refraction analysis
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, geographers, and anyone interested in the effects of Earth's curvature and atmospheric phenomena on visibility over long distances.

Duda
I recently was able to view a 193 foot building from 24 miles away. The base of the building is approximately 15 feet above sea level and my eye level was approximately 9 feet above sea level. I was viewing the building across a Lake. I could see a substantial amount of the building, which seemed like 75% or even 100%, but of course the distance was so great that I couldn't get details. Based on my curvature of the Earth calculations, I should not have been able to see any of the building as ~270 feet should have been obscured by the curvature of Earth. What am I missing? Is there some kind of refraction?
 
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I always have problems with Imperial Measurements (our Empire was dispensed with many years ago and so should the units have been!) Could it be that you are giving the formula you are using the wrong units for one of the dimensions? (No offence - just checking is always worth while. :smile:)
There is a good link about Looming here.
 
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