The correct spelling of the phrase "artificial horizon" in English is /ɑːtɪˈfɪʃəl həˈraɪzən/. The word "artificial" is spelled with a "t" after the first "i", and "horizon" ends in "-zon" and not "-son". The term refers to a flight instrument used to help pilots maintain their orientation and level flight. The artificial horizon works by displaying a miniature representation of the Earth's horizon in the cockpit, so that the pilot can see their own attitude in relation to it.
An artificial horizon, also known as an attitude indicator, is an instrument commonly used in aircraft and other navigation systems to provide the pilot or user with a visual representation of the aircraft's attitude or position with reference to the horizon. It is an essential tool in aviation, particularly during low visibility or instrument flight conditions.
The artificial horizon consists of a gyroscope mechanism that ensures the instrument remains stable and accurate during aircraft maneuvers. It typically includes a circular display that represents the horizon, with a movable indicator that represents the aircraft's attitude. The indicator represents the position of the aircraft's wings relative to the horizon, allowing the pilot to determine if the aircraft is level, climbing, descending, or banking.
The artificial horizon can provide vital information about the aircraft's pitch and roll angles, allowing the pilot to maintain the desired flight path, especially when flying in cloud cover or poor visibility. It is driven by various sensors, including gyroscopes and accelerometers, to measure the aircraft's movement and orientation.
In addition to aircraft, artificial horizons can also be found in other navigation systems such as ships and spacecraft. They play a crucial role in providing a visual reference for maintaining stability and control in situations when the true horizon may not be visible or reliable, facilitating safe and accurate navigation.
The etymology of the word "artificial horizon" can be understood by breaking it down into its individual parts.
The term "artificial" originates from the Latin word "artificialis", which means "made by human skill" or "man-made". It is derived from the Latin word "ars" or "artis", meaning "skill" or "craft".
"Horizon", on the other hand, comes from the Greek word "horizōn", which means "boundary" or "limit". It is derived from the verb "horizein", which means "to limit" or "to bound". In the context of "artificial horizon", it refers to the line or circle that separates the Earth and the sky, creating a visual reference point used in navigation.