Long geodesics on the ellipsoid

Abstract

This article examines the practical application of formulae for computing long lines on the ellipsoid. The main aim is to eliminate the successive approximation generally required. For the inverse problem, this is achieved by the method of E. M. Sodano, Army Map Service, U.S.A. An adaptation of a method produced by G. T. McCaw is used for the direct problem. Results are given of five practical examples, including two which extend halfway round the world. Construction of further special tables is recommended to simplify the computations required by a problem which has an ever increasing application. © 1955 Butterworths Scientific Publications.