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Great-Circle Vertex

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Highest-latitude point (vertex) of a great-circle track - where the track runs true east-west. Napier’s Rules of circular parts.

Formula

$$ \cos L_V = |\cos L \cdot \sin C| $$

Symbol legend

SymbolMeaningUnitSource
$L$Any known latitude on the track°input
$C$Initial course at that point°Tinput
$L_V$Vertex (highest) latitude°result

Sources

  • Bowditch - American Practical Navigator Ch.24.