ALTITUDE OF A HEAVENLY BODY Meaning and
Definition
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The altitude of a heavenly body refers to the angular height above the observer's horizon that a celestial object appears to be located. It is an important concept in astronomy as it allows astronomers and enthusiasts to determine the position of celestial objects in the sky relative to an observer's location.
The altitude of a heavenly body is measured using the astronomical coordinate system, which is based on the observer's zenith (the point directly overhead) and the horizon. When a celestial object is above the horizon, its altitude is a positive value that ranges from 0° at the horizon to 90° at the zenith. Conversely, if the object is below the horizon, its altitude is negative and its absolute value is measured from 0° at the horizon to -90° at the nadir (directly beneath the observer).
The altitude of a heavenly body is influenced by various factors, including the observer's latitude, the time of day or night, and the location of the celestial object itself. Different parts of the world will have different altitudes for the same celestial body at a given time. Additionally, due to the Earth's axial tilt, the altitude of certain celestial objects can vary throughout the year.
By knowing the altitude of a heavenly body, astronomers can accurately determine its position in the sky, track its movement, and conduct various observations and calculations.
