POLAR DISTANCE Meaning and
Definition
-
Polar distance refers to the angular measurement in astronomy that is used to determine the position of a celestial object with respect to the celestial pole. It is a fundamental concept in celestial navigation and astrometry, which involves the precise measurement of the positions and movements of celestial bodies.
In the context of astronomy, the polar distance is the angular distance of a celestial object from the celestial pole along a great circle. The celestial pole can be either the north celestial pole or the south celestial pole, depending on the observer's location in the northern or southern hemisphere respectively. The polar distance is measured in degrees, with 90 degrees corresponding to the celestial pole and 0 degrees corresponding to the celestial equator.
The polar distance is crucial for calculating the altitude and azimuth of a celestial object, as it forms the basis of many navigational and observational calculations. It is often used alongside other angular measurements, such as the declination and hour angle, to precisely determine an object's position in the sky.
Polar distance is primarily used in the field of celestial navigation, where it is employed to determine the observer's position on Earth. By measuring the polar distance of specific celestial objects, such as stars or planets, and comparing them to known values, navigators can determine their latitude and longitude on Earth's surface. This information is vital for accurate navigation, especially when other navigational aids are unavailable.
-
The angular distance of a heavenly body from the elevated pole of the heavens.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for POLAR DISTANCE
- oolar distance
- lolar distance
- -olar distance
- 0olar distance
- pilar distance
- pklar distance
- pllar distance
- pplar distance
- p0lar distance
- p9lar distance
- pokar distance
- popar distance
- pooar distance
- polzr distance
- polsr distance
- polwr distance
- polqr distance
- polae distance
- polad distance
- polaf distance
Etymology of POLAR DISTANCE
The etymology of the word "polar distance" is derived from two sources.
1. Polar: The word "polar" comes from the Latin word "polaris", meaning "of or pertaining to the pole". It is derived from the Latin word "polus", meaning "pole" or "end of an axis". In astronomy and navigation, polar refers to the North or South Pole.
2. Distance: The word "distance" comes from the Latin word "distare", which means "to stand apart". Its root "dis-" denotes separation or apart, and "stare" means "to stand". Thus, "distance" refers to the space or interval between two objects or points.
When combined, "polar distance" refers to the angular distance between a celestial object and the celestial pole. In celestial navigation, it is the angle between the object being observed and either the North or South celestial pole.
