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How to Calculate the True Azimuth of Polaris

Using the astronomical measurement coordinates of the Horizon system, finding the true azimuth of Polaris, known more commonly as the North Star, will only take a compass and a clear, dark, night. Once you locate your position north and find Polaris, you can discover the coordinates without any math at all; the Horizon system uses the astronomer as a reference point to measure the approximate location of the stars based on your time and location. Learning how to use the Horizon system will aid you, as an amateur astronomer, in keeping track of stars and other objects in the sky.

Things You'll Need

  • Compass
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Instructions

    • 1

      Orient yourself so you are facing north, using the compass.

    • 2

      Locate Polaris. Polaris will be the same height in the sky as your longitude. For example, if your longitude were 34 degrees north, Polaris will be located approximately 34 degrees north of the horizon exactly where your compass points to north as well. You do not need a measurement tool; the location can be estimated.

    • 3

      Confirm you are truly looking at Polaris by making sure it is the last star in the handle of the little dipper.

    • 4

      Find the azimuth of Polaris. Azimuth happens to be measured east along the horizon from Polaris, the North Star. Therefore, Polaris will always be measured as zero degrees azimuth.


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