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== Frequently Asked Questions == | == Frequently Asked Questions == | ||
=== How to find the latitude of my position without a map or GPS? === | === How to find the latitude of my position without a map or GPS? === | ||
| − | The latitude of your position on Earth can be found by using a [[quadrant]] to point at the [[pole star]] [[Polaris]] if you are at the north pole. As Polaris is bright enough to be seen with the naked eye and is located straight above the north pole, it is easy to measure your latitude if you know the angle between Polaris and your horizon. When you are exactly at the north pole, Polaris will be right above your head, and the angle will be 90°. And hence, the latitude will be 90° too. When you are at the equator, you will find Polaris at the horizon, at a 0° angle, which is the equator. This angle is also known as the '''altitude of the star'''. The resulting measurement obtained from your position in the northern hemisphere will be the angle of your latitude. To measure your longitude, | + | The latitude of your position on Earth can be found by using a [[quadrant]] to point at the [[pole star]] [[Polaris]] if you are at the north pole. As Polaris is bright enough to be seen with the naked eye and is located straight above the north pole, it is easy to measure your latitude if you know the angle between Polaris and your horizon. When you are exactly at the north pole, Polaris will be right above your head, and the angle will be 90°. And hence, the latitude will be 90° too. When you are at the equator, you will find Polaris at the horizon, at a 0° angle, which is the equator. This angle is also known as the '''altitude of the star'''. The resulting measurement obtained from your position in the northern hemisphere will be the angle of your latitude. To measure your longitude, check this section. |
=== How to find the latitude in the southern hemisphere? === | === How to find the latitude in the southern hemisphere? === | ||
If you are in the southern hemisphere, Polaris cannot be seen. The southern pole star is Sigma Octantis, which is fainter and a little closer to the southern pole. Measuring the altitude of Sigma Octantis will be the latitude of your position if you are in the southern hemisphere. | If you are in the southern hemisphere, Polaris cannot be seen. The southern pole star is Sigma Octantis, which is fainter and a little closer to the southern pole. Measuring the altitude of Sigma Octantis will be the latitude of your position if you are in the southern hemisphere. | ||