How is azimuth measured

If you have an appropriately detailed map, a protractor, a pencil and precise knowledge of your starting point and desired end point or direction , you are ready to draw an azimuth.

For example, say you are handed a map on which two points have been labeled A and B. A is to be your starting point, while B is your desired end point, which appears to be some distance south and west of A. How do you find the azimuth? First, use a straight edge of the protractor and your pencil to draw a line through A and B. The line does not have to stop at each point; in fact, you should extend it as far as necessary to ensure that it crosses a vertical north-south grid line.

You are now ready to reposition the protractor to determine the azimuth. At this point, you need to remember that the angle you are looking for is not necessarily the smallest angle between the vertical grid line and the line you have drawn between A and B. Otherwise, you have to refer to the relative positions of A and B. You can always check your answers against physical directions on the map to assure yourself they make sense.

You can find a variety of handy ways to calculate azimuths at various points on Earth in the Resources. Kevin Beck holds a bachelor's degree in physics with minors in math and chemistry from the University of Vermont.

Formerly with ScienceBlogs. More about Kevin and links to his professional work can be found at www. What Is the Equator's Latitude? How Does a Sundial Work? What Is the Geographic Grid? What Do Lines of Latitude Measure? Learn more about how sun and moon information is displayed on the Planner watching the following video tutorial:.

For us, the elevation of the sun is the angle between the direction of the geometric center of sun's apparent disk and the observer's local horizon. The following two pictures show the elevation of the sun in two different positions of the observer. The best way to learn how to calculate and set the azimuth and the elevation you need is by having a look at a few real examples.

The following video tutorials will teach you how to do it for different situations, step-by-step:. In conclusion, mastering azimuth and elevation will give you the power to plan any photo you imagine with sun and moon, including: a full moon setting under a secret stone arch, a sunrise between two giant rocks located on a magic beach, a sunset over the main street in your hometown or a dramatic full moon appearing from behind a nearby hill A representation of the azimuth and the elevation of the sun.

Sun at azimuth Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tell a friend. Archived in azimuth elevation.