Calculate the azimuth (compass direction) between two coordinates. Azimuth is measured clockwise from north (0° to 360°) and shows the direction from point A to point B.
Last updated: March 2026 | By Summa Calculator
Azimuth is an angular measurement used in navigation and surveying to indicate the direction of one point from another, measured as an angle from a reference direction. In geographic applications, azimuth is typically measured clockwise from true north, ranging from 0° to 360°. North is 0° (or 360°), east is 90°, south is 180°, and west is 270°.
The term originates from the Arabic word "as-sumūt," meaning "the ways" or "the directions." Azimuth is fundamental in many fields: pilots use it for aircraft navigation, surveyors use it to define property boundaries, astronomers use it to locate celestial objects, and the military uses it for targeting and positioning. In maritime navigation, azimuth helps determine the bearing to steer toward a destination.
Unlike simple compass bearings that might be described as "northeast" or "SSW," azimuth provides precision with exact degree measurements. This calculator computes the forward azimuth, the direction you would face at point A to look directly toward point B. The reverse azimuth (from B to A) is different due to Earth's curvature, except along meridians.
Azimuth is calculated from latitude and longitude using spherical trigonometry:
Calculate the azimuth from New York City to London:
Azimuth and bearing are similar but not identical. Azimuth is always measured clockwise from north (0-360°). Bearing can be given as azimuth or as quadrant bearings (N 45° E, S 30° W, etc.). In navigation, they're often used interchangeably.
No! The forward azimuth (A to B) differs from the back azimuth (B to A) due to Earth's curvature. The back azimuth isn't simply the forward azimuth ± 180°, except along meridians of longitude.
True azimuth is measured from true north (geographic north pole). Magnetic azimuth is measured from magnetic north (where compass needles point). They differ by the magnetic declination, which varies by location and changes over time.
This calculator assumes a perfect sphere for Earth and provides accuracy suitable for most navigation purposes. For surveying or precision applications requiring sub-meter accuracy, use geodetic calculations that account for Earth's ellipsoidal shape.
Azimuth provides exact numeric values essential for navigation, surveying, and astronomy. Saying 'northeast' is imprecise, it covers 45° of arc. Azimuth 51.38° is precise and can be used to set accurate courses or aim instruments.
Yes, but satellite dish pointing requires both azimuth and elevation angle. This calculator provides azimuth. You'll also need to calculate elevation based on your latitude and the satellite's orbital position.
A great circle is the shortest path between two points on a sphere. The initial azimuth points you along this great circle route. On long journeys, you must continuously adjust your bearing as the azimuth changes along the route.
Azimuth is calculated using latitude and longitude of two points with trigonometry, then expressed as an angle from north (0–360°).
Azimuth is the compass direction from one point to another, measured in degrees clockwise from north.
Pilots use azimuth (often called heading or course) to navigate. They correct for magnetic variation and wind drift. The azimuth from departure to destination is the initial course to fly, though it changes along great circle routes.
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