Azimuth
The azimuth is the angle in the horizontal plane between the direction of an object and the geographic south (for astronomers). Often the geographic north is also taken as a reference point. This angle is expressed in degrees. Astronomers measure the azimuth clockwise.
- An object in the south direction has an azimuth of 0°.
- An object in the west direction has an azimuth of 90°.
- An object in the north direction has an azimuth of 180°.
- An object in the east direction has an azimuth of 270°.
Elevation
The elevation or altitude is the angle between the direction of an object (the Sun) and the horizontal plane. This angle is expressed in degrees.
- An object at the horizon has an elevation of 0°.
- An object at the zenith has an elevation of 90°.
