Polar coordinates, where the distance from the origin and an angle are used as the two measurements, works just as well, and sometimes can be a preferred method.

The plotter traces patterns in the circular sand tray by dragging a small marble with a magnet. This is achieved with a pair of NEMA 17 stepper motors, set up in a polar coordinate fashion.

Searching for a Rectangular Sun Above the Arctic Circle As polar winter sets in during an expedition on a research vessel, a reporter hopes she’ll catch a glimpse of a brilliant mirage.