If an observer determines that the North Star (Polaris) is located 30° above the horizon, then the observer is located at ________.
A) 70 degrees north latitude
B) 60 degrees north latitude
C) 30 degrees north latitude
D) 60 degrees north longitude
E) 30 degrees north longitude

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The North Star (Polaris) is located at the celestial pole, which makes it a useful reference point for determining latitude. The height (or altitude) of Polaris above the observer's horizon is equal to the observer's latitude. Therefore, if the observer determines that Polaris is 30° above the horizon, the observer is located at 60° north latitude (since the North Pole is located at 90° north latitude and the equator is located at 0° latitude).

If an Observer Determines That the North Star (Polaris) Is