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Offshore navigation

38141 · 2006-09-30 17:16:01

Without GPS, how would one navigate offshore, without the aid of landmarks? You'd have a compass, but how would you be able to tell where you were exactly, and what course you would need to take in order to arrive at your destination?

30-09-2006 6:16pm

#1

38141

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Without GPS, how would one navigate offshore, without the aid of landmarks? You'd have a compass, but how would you be able to tell where you were exactly, and what course you would need to take in order to arrive at your destination?

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#2 20-10-2006 3:50pm

Pete67

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One would use a sextant and a set of sight reduction tables to calculate a position. The sextant is used to measure the angle of elevation of the sun or other celestial object. Do a Google search for 'Celestial Navigation' and you will find lots of information.

Many sailing clubs run winter shore-based courses if you are interested in this ancient art.

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