arcsecond to degree calculator

Angles are commonly measured in degrees, arcminutes, arcseconds, radians, and gradians. While degrees are widely used, arcseconds are critical in astronomy, surveying, navigation, and precision engineering because they allow extremely small angle measurements.

Arcseconds to Degrees Calculator

What is an Arcsecond?

An arcsecond (″) is a subdivision of a degree:

  • 1 degree = 60 arcminutes (′)
  • 1 arcminute = 60 arcseconds (″)
  • Therefore: 1 degree = 3600 arcseconds

Arcseconds are commonly used in astronomy, geodesy, surveying, and precision engineering to measure very small angles accurately.


What is a Degree?

A degree (°) is a standard unit of angle measurement:

  • 1 full circle = 360°
  • Degrees are widely used in geometry, navigation, construction, and astronomy.

Arcsecond to Degree Conversion Formula

To convert arcseconds into degrees, use the formula:

Formula:
degrees = arcseconds ÷ 3600


Example Conversions

  1. Convert 3600″ to degrees
    • degrees = 3600 ÷ 3600 = 1°
  2. Convert 1800″ to degrees
    • degrees = 1800 ÷ 3600 = 0.5°
  3. Convert 7200″ to degrees
    • degrees = 7200 ÷ 3600 = 2°
  4. Convert 162,000″ to degrees
    • degrees = 162,000 ÷ 3600 = 45°
  5. Convert 1,296,000″ to degrees
    • degrees = 1,296,000 ÷ 3600 = 360°

How to Use the Arcsecond to Degree Calculator

Using the calculator is simple:

  1. Enter the arcsecond value – Type your angle in arcseconds.
  2. Click Convert – The tool instantly computes the equivalent in degrees.
  3. View the result – The angle in degrees is displayed immediately.

This is especially useful for astronomers, navigators, surveyors, engineers, and students who require precise angular measurements.


Why Convert Arcseconds to Degrees?

  • Astronomy – Calculate the positions of stars, planets, and celestial objects.
  • Navigation – Convert coordinates for more manageable degree measurements.
  • Surveying & Mapping – Convert very precise land and construction measurements.
  • Education – Helps students understand angle subdivisions.
  • Precision Work – Essential in physics, geodesy, and engineering calculations.

Arcsecond to Degree Reference Table

Arcseconds (″)Degrees (°)
0″
1800″0.5°
3600″
7200″
18,000″
36,000″10°
54,000″15°
108,000″30°
162,000″45°
324,000″90°
648,000″180°
1,296,000″360°

Real-World Applications

  1. Astronomy – Measure extremely small angular separations between stars, planets, and other celestial objects.
  2. Navigation – Convert high-precision coordinates into degrees for easier plotting.
  3. Surveying – Convert field measurements to degrees for accurate land mapping.
  4. Engineering & Physics – Align instruments or calculate angles accurately.
  5. Education – Understand subdivisions of angles in mathematics and science.

Benefits of Using the Calculator

  • Instant Conversion – Converts arcseconds to degrees in seconds.
  • Accurate – Eliminates errors from manual calculations.
  • Time-Saving – No need to memorize formulas.
  • User-Friendly – Works for beginners, students, and professionals.
  • Supports Any Arcsecond Value – Handles fractional, decimal, and very large inputs.

20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How do you convert arcseconds to degrees?
A: Divide the arcsecond value by 3600.

Q2. What is 3600″ in degrees?
A: 3600″ = 1°

Q3. What is 1800″ in degrees?
A: 1800″ = 0.5°

Q4. Why use degrees instead of arcseconds?
A: Degrees are easier to interpret for most applications and reduce large numbers.

Q5. What is the formula for arcseconds to degrees?
A: degrees = arcseconds ÷ 3600

Q6. How many degrees are in 1,296,000″?
A: 1,296,000″ = 360°

Q7. Can this calculator handle decimal arcseconds?
A: Yes, decimal and fractional values are supported.

Q8. What is 7200″ in degrees?
A: 7200″ = 2°

Q9. Is this calculator useful for astronomers?
A: Yes, it measures tiny angular separations accurately.

Q10. Can negative arcseconds be converted?
A: Yes, negative values indicate clockwise rotation.

Q11. What is 162,000″ in degrees?
A: 162,000″ = 45°

Q12. Can this calculator be used for navigation?
A: Yes, it converts high-precision coordinates to degrees for mapping.

Q13. How do I convert degrees back to arcseconds?
A: Multiply the degree value by 3600.

Q14. What is 36,000″ in degrees?
A: 36,000″ = 10°

Q15. Is this calculator suitable for students?
A: Yes, it helps learn angle subdivisions easily.

Q16. What is 648,000″ in degrees?
A: 648,000″ = 180°

Q17. Can this calculator handle very small arcsecond values?
A: Yes, fractional values are supported.

Q18. Is this calculator free?
A: Yes, it provides instant and accurate conversions at no cost.

Q19. Why use an Arcsecond to Degree calculator?
A: For fast, precise, and convenient conversion without manual calculations.

Q20. What is 324,000″ in degrees?
A: 324,000″ = 90°


Final Thoughts

The Arcsecond to Degree Calculator is an essential tool for astronomers, navigators, surveyors, engineers, and students. Converting arcseconds to degrees becomes effortless and precise, making calculations faster and more accurate.