Kulmakorkeus

Kulmakorkeus refers to the angle between the horizon and the center of a celestial object, such as a star or planet, as observed from a specific location on Earth. It is a fundamental concept in astronomy and navigation. This angle is also known as altitude or elevation. The kulmakorkeus varies continuously as the celestial object appears to move across the sky due to the Earth's rotation. When a celestial object is directly overhead, its kulmakorkeus is 90 degrees, which is its maximum possible value. When an object is on the horizon, its kulmakorkeus is 0 degrees.

Understanding kulmakorkeus is crucial for determining when a celestial object is visible and for calculating its position in the sky. It is used in celestial navigation to determine a ship's or aircraft's position by measuring the kulmakorkeus of known stars. In astronomy, it helps in planning observations, as many telescopes and instruments have limitations on the range of kulmakorkeus they can effectively observe. The kulmakorkeus of an object is influenced by the observer's latitude, the object's declination, and the time of observation.