Altimeter

An altimeter is an instrument used to measure the altitude, or height, of an object above a fixed level, often sea level. This measurement is typically based on the change in atmospheric pressure. The altimeter is a crucial piece of equipment in aviation and other fields where accurate altitude information is essential for safety and navigation. The instrument can be used on a wide variety of machines and instruments. It translates atmospheric pressure into a reading of height above a designated reference point.

Altimeter meaning with examples

• The pilot carefully monitored the altimeter during the descent, ensuring they maintained the correct altitude for landing. Any drift in the altimeter's reading would cause a change in their position and make them unstable to fly. A properly calibrated altimeter is essential for a safe approach and landing.
• Mountaineers rely on altimeters to track their ascent and descent, preventing altitude sickness and helping them navigate challenging terrain. Its constant reading lets hikers prepare and allows for safe decision making. A high-quality altimeter is a key piece of equipment for mountaineering expeditions.
• The weather balloon carried an altimeter to record the atmospheric pressure at different heights, providing valuable data for meteorologists. The device would transmit that information to a station. Such data is used to predict weather patterns and forecast severe storms, based on the altimeter data.
• In some drone applications, altimeters are used to maintain a specific altitude and to facilitate autonomous flight. The altimeter is a necessary part of such machines, its signals being used to maintain a specific position. This is useful for aerial photography and surveying, especially where ground tracking is difficult.