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Commodore
- 10
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Can anyone explain how to graph Right Ascension and Declination on a globe graph?
Commodore said:I understand that it is like longitude and latitude, but if I am presented with a blank map of the night sky and am asked to find what is at some number RA and Dec, how do I start, RA or Dec? And, does it matter where I am starting from?
chroot said:What do you mean, a "blank map?" How is a blank map useful?
If you're given a map with coordinates on it, all you need to do is... find the spot with the given coordinates. You can start with either coordinate first. When you find the right RA, you've found a specific line of "longitude." You can then follow that line until you find the given declination.
- Warren
Right ascension and declination are two coordinates used to locate celestial objects on a globe graph. Right ascension measures an object's east-west position on the celestial sphere, while declination measures its north-south position.
Right ascension is typically represented by lines of longitude on a globe graph, while declination is represented by lines of latitude.
The purpose of graphing right ascension and declination on a globe graph is to visually represent the locations of celestial objects in the sky. This can help astronomers and researchers study the movements and positions of these objects.
Right ascension is measured in hours, minutes, and seconds, while declination is measured in degrees, arcminutes, and arcseconds. Both coordinates are measured relative to the celestial equator and the vernal equinox.
Yes, right ascension and declination can be converted to other coordinate systems such as equatorial coordinates and ecliptic coordinates. This allows for easier comparison and analysis of celestial objects in different coordinate systems.