ellipsoid height

The distance, measured along the normal, from the surface of the ellipsoid to a point. Not the same as elevation above a physical, vertical datum.

A. Topographic surface

B. Geoid

C. Ellipsoid

1. Orthometric height (H)

2. Geoid height (N)

3. Ellipsoidal height (h)

See also elevation, geoid separation, orthometric height.