Navigation Notes : Code N6

PZX Triangle
Capt. Abhishek Mishra

PZX TRIANGLE AS A SPHERICAL TRIANGLE

A Spherical Triangle should have all the three sides formed by arcs of GREAT CIRCLE.

PZX is a Spherical Triangle because

(i) PX is part of Celestial Body’s meridian (i.e. Great Circle)

(ii) PZ is part of Observer’s Meridian ( i.e. Great Circle)

(iii) ZX is part of Vertical Circle passing through Celestial Body (i.e. Great Circle)

HERE,

CO – LATITUDE (PZ) = 90° - LATITUDE

POLAR DISTANCE (PX) = 90° - DECLINATION (DX in figure)

ZENITH DISTANCE (ZX) = 90° - TRUE ALTITUDE (HX in figure)

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