The Prime Meridian

The Prime Meridian divides the globe into Eastern and Western hemispheres, just as the equator divides the globe into Northern and Southern hemispheres. The Prime Meridian is at 0 degrees longitude, just as the equator is at 0 degrees latitude.

World Time Zone Map


The Prime Meridian
in Greenwich, England
National Maritime Museum

Latitude: 51.5°N
Longitude: 0.0°

Time Clues Coming in March

Time and Longitude
Use the time zone map to locate the Prime Meridian and Greenwich, England.

  • How far east or west of the Prime Meridian do you live (in degrees)?
  • What is the time difference (in hours and minutes)?

Facts to Remember

  • Greenwich, England is the reference point you will use for measuring time.
  • The Prime Meridian is the reference line you will use for measuring longitude.