Azimuth is a concept that is used in the field of astronomy.
The term azimuth , also accepted by the Royal Spanish Academy ( RAE ) as azimuth , is used in the field of astronomy . Its etymological origin is found in the Arabic word assumūt , which is the plural of samt .
Azimuth is the angle that, together with the meridian , makes up the vertical circle that passes through a point on the planet Earth or the celestial sphere . What is linked to the azimuth is classified as azimuthal or azimuthal .
Concept analysis
To understand what azimuth is, it is essential to pay attention to several notions. First, it must be clear that an ideal sphere that is concentric to the globe and in which the apparent displacement of the stars takes place is called a celestial sphere .
The maximum circumference of said sphere, which passes through the south pole and the north pole of the Earth , is referred to as a meridian . This circle and the azimuth create the vertical circle that intersects with a point on the planet or the designated celestial sphere.
Azimuth characteristics
We said that azimuth is an angle . It originates with the union of north (cardinal point) and a line that is drawn between the observer and a star or point that is located in the plane shared with the reference direction. This line is the vertical projection of the point or star on the horizon of the individual who is positioned as an observer.
It should be noted that azimuth and height are horizontal coordinates whose determination depends on the position of the observer. The same star, at a specific time, is seen with different azimuths and different heights by people depending on their geographical location.
Simplifying, it can be said that the azimuth is the angle that a star makes with the north. Its measurement, expressed in degrees, is carried out clockwise , around the horizon of the observing subject.
Azimuth allows us to know the location of a star at a specific time and from a specific position.
Uses and usefulness
Azimuth and altitude, as we already indicated, are coordinates that allow defining the position of a star on the celestial sphere considering a specific position and a precise moment . Therefore, these variables help to know where exactly a star, the Moon, the Sun, etc., is located at a particular moment and according to the location of the observer.
For photographers , azimuth is important in many cases. If you want to photograph the Moon during the day, for example, the azimuth helps locate its exact position. This way you can get the shots you want.
In navigation , whether nautical or aerial, azimuth can also be used. The same thing happens in topography and cartography .
It is important not to confuse azimuth with other similar notions. The heading , to mention one of these words, is the direction that is drawn or considered in the plane of the horizon. The directions that can be included in the so-called compass rose (a circle that indicates the thirty-two directions in which the return of the horizon can be segmented) are usually called heading.