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The [[Equator]] is a line of [[Lines of latitude|latitude]] that goes around the middle of the [[Earth]].  The Equator is equidistant from both geographical poles at all locations along it.  It measures 24,902 miles in distance and is represented as 0° of latitude.  

The [[Equator]] is a line of [[Lines of latitude|latitude]] that goes around the middle of the [[Earth]].  The Equator is equidistant from both geographical poles at all locations along it.  It measures 24,902 miles in distance and is represented as 0° of latitude.  

The Equator goes through some countries, like [[Ecuador]] (which is named for it) and [[Zaire]], but it does not go through the United States. [[Florida]] is the state closest to the Equator in the States (except for [[Hawaii]]).

The Equator goes through some countries, like [[Ecuador]] (which is named for it) and [[Zaire]], but it does not go through the United States. [[Florida]] is the state closest to the Equator in the continental United States.  [[Hawaii]] is closer.

Just as Polaris is almost exactly on the celestial North Pole, the "belt" of the constellation Orion is almost exactly on the celestial equator. If you see Orion's belt is directly overhead, you know you are on the Equator. Early Polynesian seafarers may have used it for navigation.

Just as Polaris is almost exactly on the celestial North Pole, the "belt" of the constellation Orion is almost exactly on the celestial equator. If you see Orion's belt is directly overhead, you know you are on the Equator. Early Polynesian seafarers may have used it for navigation.