Find position using angles from two points
Measure the distance between two observation points A and B (the baseline).
Why: The baseline is the reference. Larger baselines give more accurate target positions. All angles are measured from these two points.
From point A, measure the angle from the baseline toward the target.
Why: This angle, combined with the baseline distance, determines one side of the triangle. It anchors the target's position relative to A.
From point B, measure the angle from the baseline toward the same target.
Why: Two angles from different positions uniquely determine a point in 2D space. The intersection of sight lines locates the target.
Use sine ratios to find distances from A and B to the target, then calculate coordinates.
Why: The Law of Sines directly relates side lengths to opposite angles. It's perfect for this triangle problem.
Check that coordinates are reasonable and distances are positive and sensible.
Why: Results should pass sanity checks. Huge or negative distances indicate calculation or input errors.
Locating a Forest Fire
Related Tools
Calculate average rate of change.
Calculate bilinear interpolation.
Calculate binocular range.
Calculate conic sections.
Calculate coordinate grid properties.
Calculate linear interpolation.