Convert Earth's Equatorial Radius (R⊕) to Nautical League (UK) (nl (UK)) instantly.
About these units
Earth's Equatorial Radius (R⊕)
The Earth's equatorial radius is approximately 6,378.1 km. This distance represents the radius measured along the equator, where Earth's rotational bulge makes it slightly larger than the polar radius. Geodesists, cartographers, and astronomers use the equatorial radius for mapping, satellite positioning, and calculating gravitational effects. It is fundamental to defining the shape of the Earth as an oblate spheroid rather than a perfect sphere. Precise knowledge of R⊕ enables accurate navigation, climate modeling, and orbital calculations, forming the basis for modern geodesy and Earth observation systems.
Nautical League (UK) (nl (UK))
This older British unit corresponds to 3 UK nautical miles, or 18,240 feet (about 5,563.6 meters), slightly longer than the international version. Before international standardization, distances in British naval operations were often recorded using UK nautical leagues, especially in long-range maritime planning. Like other historical British units, the UK nautical league reflects the era when each naval power maintained its own measurement standards. While no longer used for navigation, it appears in historic ship logs, naval battles, and exploration records—especially for events predating the 20th century. For historians, the distinction between the UK league and the international one is critical to accurate interpretation of maritime distances.