Brent,
Yes, I think you *could* determine your longitude by observing a
geosynchronous satellite whose location was known. There would be some
uncertainty if it wanders a little. Much more important, however, is
figuring out which geosynchronous satellite you are looking at. You'd
probably have to aim a dish at it and see what TV stations you get.
-- Roger
----- Original Message -----
From: "Brent" <[email protected]>
To: "Sundial List" <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, December 09, 2010 3:17 PM
Subject: stop the earth
I have been wondering why I can determine my latitude using simple tools
but not my longitude? The earth is a sphere, I would think if you can
determine one you can determine both.
The problem with calculating longitude seems to be the earth is rotating
on its' axis. If the earth stopped spinning, the sun would not rise and
set but stay put, and then I could determine the angle of the sun from my
horizon and thus determine my longitude.
Well that's not going to happen anytime soon. But if I could see a
geostationary satellite I could essentially do the same thing don't you
think?
I have seen orbiting satellites at dusk many times but does anyone know if
you can see geostationary satellites with the naked eye?
thanks;
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