Understanding Azimuth: Compass Bearings and Direction

Azimuth is the compass direction of an object measured clockwise from true north (0°), east 90°, south 180°, west 270°. It describes horizontal angle only — elevation angle (altitude) is separate. Surveyors, astronomers, ham radio operators, and solar installers use azimuth daily.

True north vs magnetic north

Azimuth in mapping and astronomy usually references true (geographic) north. Compass needles point magnetic north, offset by declination that varies by location and year. Apply local declination correction or GPS bearing when precision matters — error of several degrees mis-aims long-distance lines.

Calculating azimuth between two points

Given coordinates A and B, forward azimuth from A to B is the initial bearing along the great circle path. The Azimuth Calculator returns degrees from north and complementary compass quadrants for surveying and antenna pointing.

Solar azimuth applications

• Fixed solar panels often tilt toward azimuth of maximum sun (near south in northern hemisphere)
• Morning sun low east azimuth; evening west — shade analysis for buildings
• Photography golden hour planning uses sun azimuth + elevation

Azimuth vs bearing notation

Surveyors may express bearing as quadrant angles (N 45° E) instead of continuous azimuth. Conversion is arithmetic — know which convention your tool outputs before setting equipment.

Frequently asked questions