An azimuth is the angle of intersection between a reference point, normally an observer, and a desired position whether it is a pure direction or the location of an object in any given space. The angle of Azimuth has been used since ancient times especially for navigation by the stars. The most well known application of the Azimuth in navigation is the use of the North Star by marine navigators. By using this star as a reference point along with its angle relative to the navigator it was used to help guide ships on their journey until the advent of the compass. During the Age of Exploration European sailors used an instrument called a sextant to help measure this angle when determining their heading and coordinates.
The Azimuth also has applications in astronomy other than navigation. By determining the intersecting angle between the horizon and a celestial object at its zenith astronomers can accurately track the location of a celestial object and where it will turn up. The applications are endless and crucial to the observation of celestial objects and can even be used to help determine the launch coordinates of space craft.
The more familiar application of this term is nearer than you think. If you ever had satellite TV you have used an Azimuth in your everyday life. In order for your dish to pick up the signal it normally has to be pointed in the given direction and angle (the Azimuth) where the satellite transmitting the signal should be. So without it you wouldn’t be able to watch your favorite show.
This also has a wider application than the personal example just used. This is used for satellites in general. Without the use of the azimuth concept regular antenna for satellites ranging from GPS to communications satellites could not pick up their signals and the vital information they deliver.
It also helps us in observing the universe. We have many more ways to observe stars than ever before than in ancient times. Rather than just using the traditional telescope we can download images capture by telescopes in space such as the Hubble telescope. We can also use huge dishes to pick up radio signals from space and learn more about the energy being emitted in space and the objects and other celestial sources emitting it. So while the concept seems quite simple it plays an important role in modern astronomy.
If you enjoyed this article there are others on the Universe Today website you can enjoy. There is an interesting article about a mysterious Fireball that appeared in the Colorado sky. There is an interesting article about locating the Discovery space shuttle.
You can also listen to Astronomy Cast. Episode 33 Choosing and using a telescope.
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