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← HistoryWhich limitation constrained accuracy of timekeeping using medieval astrolabes, especially at extreme latitudes?
A)Inaccurate star position tables
B)Lack of precise latitude calibration
C)Difficulty resolving small altitude changes
D)Variable atmospheric refraction near horizon✓
💡 Explanation
At extreme latitudes, increased atmospheric refraction near the horizon significantly distorts apparent altitude of celestial bodies, making angle measurements unreliable for accurate time calculations because optical path length varies depending on atmosphere. Therefore, atmospheric distortion results, rather than concerns of star positions or latitude because accurate modern data can compensate for other factors.
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