TRANSIT INSTRUMENT Meaning and
Definition
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A transit instrument is a scientific instrument used in astronomy and geodesy to measure the precise time of transit of celestial bodies across the meridian, an imaginary line running from the North to the South celestial pole. It consists of a telescope mounted horizontally in the east-west direction on an accurately leveled and stable base known as a pier. The instrument is usually fixed in a permanent observatory.
Transit instruments are designed to measure the exact moment when a celestial object crosses the observer's meridian. This allows astronomers to determine the object's right ascension, a celestial coordinate, as well as calculate accurate timekeeping. By observing several transits of different celestial bodies, astronomers can also determine the local latitude and longitude of the observing site.
The instrument has a vertical circle, which is a graduated circle that allows astronomers to measure the altitude or angular distance of a celestial object above the horizon. The vertical circle is equipped with microscopes for precise reading of the graduations. Transit instruments are often equipped with a sidereal clock or chronograph for precise timekeeping during observations.
Transit instruments played a crucial role in the development of celestial navigation and the determination of coordinates on the Earth's surface. Their accuracy and precision have been vital for the creation of maps, surveys, and other geodetic purposes. With the advent of space-based observations and modern technology, transit instruments are less commonly used today, but they remain an important historical instrument in the study of astronomy and geodesy.
Common Misspellings for TRANSIT INSTRUMENT
- rransit instrument
- fransit instrument
- gransit instrument
- yransit instrument
- 6ransit instrument
- 5ransit instrument
- teansit instrument
- tdansit instrument
- tfansit instrument
- ttansit instrument
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- t4ansit instrument
- trznsit instrument
- trsnsit instrument
- trwnsit instrument
- trqnsit instrument
- trabsit instrument
- tramsit instrument
- trajsit instrument
Etymology of TRANSIT INSTRUMENT
The word "transit" originated from the Latin word "transitus", which means "a passage or crossing". It ultimately comes from the verb "transire", meaning "to go across" or "to pass over". The term "instrument" is derived from the Latin word "instrumentum", which refers to a tool or device used for a specific purpose. When combined, "transit instrument" refers to a specialized apparatus used for the precise measurement of time, positions, and angles in astronomical or surveying observations.
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