zenith distance

American  

noun

Astronomy.

1. the angular distance from the zenith of a point on the celestial sphere to the sphere, measured along a great circle that is perpendicular to the horizon; the complement of the altitude.

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Etymology

Origin of zenith distance

First recorded in 1695–1705

Example Sentences

Hence, having secured the true meridian altitude of the sun, you have only to subtract it from 90� to find your zenith distance, i.e., how far you are from the sun.

From Lectures in Navigation by Draper, Ernest Gallaudet

Two extremely sensitive levels are attached to the telescope, which latter carries a micrometer in its eye-piece, with a screw of long range for measuring differences of zenith distance.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 6 "Geodesy" to "Geometry" by Various

The zenith distance of any point or celestial body is its angular distance from the zenith of the observer.

From Lectures in Navigation by Draper, Ernest Gallaudet

In this case, your distance North of the equator AD would be your zenith distance AB minus the sun's declination DB.

From Lectures in Navigation by Draper, Ernest Gallaudet

Accordingly, an observation of the temperature produced by solar radiation at a zenith distance whose secant is twice that of the secant of 17° 12', viz.,

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 458, October 11, 1884 by Various