So, What is Actually the Distance from the Equator to the Pole? – Overview of the Meridian Distance Approximations

In the paper, the author presents an overview of the meridian distance approximations, and seeks to determine polar distance - the actual distance from the equator to the pole. In spite of appearances, this is not such a simple question. The problem of determining the polar distance is a great opportunity to demonstrate the multitude of possible solutions in common use. At the beginning of the paper, the author discusses some approximations and a few exact expressions (infinite sums) to calculate perimeter and quadrant of an ellipse. He presents convenient measurement units of the distance on the surface of the Earth and existing methods for the solution of the great circle and great elliptic sailing. In the end, he analyses and compares geodetic formulas for the meridian arc length.

Language

  • English

Media Info

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01496939
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Oct 28 2013 10:07AM