Request from a potential client

Mil, radian, same thing! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angular_mil

I would suggest you ask for clarification so you meet expectations. Not what you assume.

Thanks Curly & Dave,

I spoke with the client and clarified what he was looking for.

I love the quick responses here!!!

> I received a request to survey in a couple of baselines on site.
> I plan to meet the client rep. on site later today.
>
> "The targets range from ~1km-4.5km away and precision azimuth (to less-than 1mil accuracy) is required."
>
> This is the accuracy requirement from the client.
>
> Maybe I am not used to seeing this but what accuracy is less than 1 mil?
>
> Jim in NH

Dealing with metric angular measurement as used by the military. Based on 90° equal to 100 grads (or gons) and the two links below should be very helpful. If you have a five second or better total station the angular accuracy requirement should be well within your ability to certify.

Angular mil
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Also note at the bottom of the page there are several angular ratios under "Definitions of the angular mil"

Angle Converter
Online calculator

Use the first link to check the second. Also many recent survey texts include an angular conversion table or equations. From the calculator 1 mil is equal to 3.375 minutes. You also need to know what the basis of azimuth requirement is, astronomic/geodetic, UTM grid, state plane coordinate system or magnetic.

What basis of bearing?

[sarcasm]Assumed North[/sarcasm]

"..."The targets range from ~1km-4.5km away and precision azimuth (to less-than 1mil accuracy) is required...."

Just make sure that you precisely assume.

I still remember that

1000 mils = 1 radian = 57 deg 17'45"

also, 1 degree is 0.01745 Radians

(note that the numbers 17-45 are common to both)

Still stuck in my brain after all these years; Dam that high school trig teacher!