Declination Calculations

Study the diagram below. I happen to live in Middlesbrough which has a a latitude of 55 degrees though in the exam it could be any latitude.

Notice the following: The pole star is 55 degrees above the horizon. Any star with a declination of 35 degrees will just skim the horizon. Any star with a declination > 35 degrees will be circumpolar. (In the sky all the time.   35 = 90 - 55) Any star with a declination of 55 degrees could be at the zenith (directly overhead)

There will be a question based on understanding this in the exam so make sure you do. You might find it useful to do a sketch like the one above to help you figure it out.

Have a go at the examples on the Declination Calculations worksheet.