Question

what is the approximate altitude of polaris at buffalo, ny? what is the approximate altitude of polaris at messena, ny? what city are you at when polaris is 43°40 above the horizon?

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the relationship between Polaris altitude and latitude

The altitude of Polaris above the horizon is approximately equal to the observer's latitude in the Northern - Hemisphere.

Step2: Find the latitude of Buffalo, NY

Buffalo, NY is approximately at 42°50' N latitude. So the approximate altitude of Polaris at Buffalo, NY is 42°50'.

Step3: Find the latitude of Messena, NY

Messena, NY is approximately at 44°30' N latitude. So the approximate altitude of Polaris at Messena, NY is 44°30'.

Step4: Determine the city for given Polaris altitude

If Polaris is 43°40' above the horizon, the observer is at approximately 43°40' N latitude. Syracuse, NY is close to this latitude.

Answer:

What is the approximate altitude of Polaris at Buffalo, NY? 42°50'
What is the approximate altitude of Polaris at Messena, NY? 44°30'
What city are you at when Polaris is 43°40' above the horizon? Syracuse, NY