Latitude, Longitude, & Polaris

Front

What is latitude?

Back

Latitude is the measurement of distance north or south of the Equator, expressed in degrees. It ranges from 0° at the Equator to 90° at the poles.

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What is longitude?

Back

Longitude is the measurement of distance east or west of the Prime Meridian, expressed in degrees. It ranges from 0° at the Prime Meridian to 180° east or west.

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What is the significance of Polaris?

Back

Polaris, also known as the North Star, is significant because it is located nearly directly above the North Pole, making it a key reference point for navigation in the Northern Hemisphere.

Front

How do you determine your latitude using Polaris?

Back

The altitude of Polaris above the horizon in degrees is approximately equal to your latitude in the Northern Hemisphere.

Front

What is the approximate latitude of Syracuse, NY?

Back

Syracuse, NY is approximately at 43° N latitude.

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What is the approximate longitude of Syracuse, NY?

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Syracuse, NY is approximately at 76° W longitude.

Front

How can you find the latitude of a location using a star?

Back

By measuring the angle between the horizon and a known star (like Polaris), you can determine the latitude of your location.

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What is the latitude of Watertown, NY?

Back

Watertown, NY is approximately at 44° N latitude.

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What is the longitude of Watertown, NY?

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Watertown, NY is approximately at 75° W longitude.

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If Polaris is seen at 49 degrees above the horizon, what is the latitude?

Back

If Polaris is seen at 49 degrees above the horizon, the latitude is approximately 49° N.