Distance to Object (Angle + Height)

distance = height / tan(angle). Range from observer to base of object.

Inputs

Result

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How to use this calculator

  • Enter object height + measured angle of elevation.

About this calculator

Range from observer to base of object using elevation angle + known object height. Standard hypsometer / clinometer calculation. Useful for sniper rangefinding (with known target height), naval gunnery (mast height), surveying (distant landmarks). Light refraction matters at long range; assume straight-line for distances < 5 miles.

Frequently asked

Eye height correction?+
Subtract eye height from object height for accurate distance. 6 ft observer measuring 100 ft tower: use 94 ft.
Hypsometer?+
Tree-height instrument using elevation angle + measured ground distance. Reverse calc.
Atmospheric refraction?+
Negligible <5 km. At 50 km: object appears ~10 ft higher. Affects astronomy.
Bullet/projectile drop?+
For shooting: combine with bullet ballistics. Range × angle is geometry; impact prediction needs ballistics.
Without known height?+
Use triangulation from 2 positions. See surveying-triangulation calculator.

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