What does AZ mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Alt Az is an abbreviation for Alt Azimuth, a coordinate system used in astronomy and navigation to define the position of a celestial object. It specifies the altitude and azimuth of the object relative to an observer's location.

Alt Az is different from other coordinate systems, such as equatorial coordinates or ecliptic coordinates, as it is defined relative to the observer's horizon and geographic location. In contrast, equatorial coordinates are defined with respect to the celestial equator, while ecliptic coordinates are defined with respect to the ecliptic plane.

Altitude in Alt Az refers to the vertical angle between the horizon and the celestial object as seen from the observer's location. It is measured in degrees, ranging from 0 degrees at the horizon to 90 degrees directly overhead at the zenith.

Azimuth in Alt Az refers to the horizontal angle between the north point of the observer's horizon and the projection of the celestial object onto the horizon. It is measured in degrees, clockwise from north (0 degrees), through east (90 degrees), south (180 degrees), and west (270 degrees).

Alt Az is commonly used in astronomy and navigation for various applications, including:

• Observation and tracking of celestial objects
• Calculation of object positions and trajectories
• Pointing and alignment of telescopes and other instruments
• Determination of an observer's location and orientation