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← HistoryWhich functional limitation arises from the projection method of medieval astrolabes onto a flat plane?
A)Inaccurate measurement of object altitude
B)Distortion of angular relationships at zenith✓
C)Inability to determine sidereal time
D)Reduced precision in planetary positions
💡 Explanation
When projecting the celestial sphere onto a flat astrolabe, stereographic projection introduces angular distortion, because flattening the sphere compresses higher angles. Therefore distortion is greatest at zenith, rather than altitude errors, sidereal time issues, or loss of planar precision, which arise from dissimilar constraints.
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