ALTITUDE AND AZIMUTH INSTRUMENT Meaning and
Definition
-
An altitude and azimuth instrument, also known as an altazimuth instrument or simply altazimuth, is a device used in astronomy and surveying to determine the vertical and horizontal angles of celestial objects or landmarks. It consists of two perpendicular axes: the altitude axis and the azimuth axis.
The altitude axis, also referred to as the vertical axis, measures the angle between the object or landmark being observed and the observer's horizon. It is perpendicular to the ground and can be moved vertically to adjust the instrument's view. The altitude angle is expressed in degrees and represents the object's elevation above the observer's horizon.
The azimuth axis, also known as the horizontal axis, is perpendicular to the altitude axis and measures the angle between the object or landmark and a reference point on the observer's horizon. This reference point is typically the north direction. The azimuth angle is expressed in degrees and represents the object's position along the observer's horizon, clockwise from the north.
Altitude and azimuth instruments are commonly used in telescopes, surveying equipment, and navigation devices. By accurately determining the altitude and azimuth angles, these instruments enable precise tracking and alignment with celestial objects or landmarks. This allows astronomers to observe specific celestial bodies, such as stars or planets, and surveyors to accurately determine the positions of objects on the Earth's surface.
