Longitude and Latitude to Distances

AI Thread Summary
Calculating longitudinal and lateral displacement from GPS coordinates involves understanding how latitude and longitude translate to distances, which varies based on proximity to the poles. The maximum values occur at the equator, complicating calculations as one moves north or south. A formula for calculating the distance between two points has been identified, but the user seeks to separate this into lateral and longitudinal components. The relationship between the hypotenuse and the angles formed by these components can be determined using trigonometric functions like sine and cosine. This approach allows for accurate calculations of the desired distances.
Hemib
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Hi,

How can I calculate the longitudinal and lateral displacement from the longitude and latitude in degrees from a GPS.

Thx!
 
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Not easily.

When it comes to a globe, the values at the equator are at their maximum whilst they tend to zero towards the poles.

You would need to allow for this in order to gain meaningful data. From the outset, it looks rather complex for the purpose you require.
 
Thanks for reactions!

I now have a formula to calculate the traveled distance between two points. But I want to split this in a lateral and longitudinal distance. So what I have is an right triangle with the calculated distance equals the hypotenuse. What I want are the distances over the other 2 legs of the triangle.

My GPS signal gives me the course I'm heading. Is this the angle in triangle between the hypotenuse and the lateral distance? If it is, I can easy calculate the other 2 legs with sinus and cosinus.

Thx
 

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