Description
Navigation Templates – Sun Observation is a specialized navigation aid developed for use in astronomical navigation based on solar observations. The template makes it easier to carry out and document calculations when the navigator uses a sextant to observe the sun and determine position at sea.
For solar observations, the navigator must combine measurements from the sextant with data from the Nautical Almanac and accurate time from a chronometer. The result of the calculations provides a position line that can be plotted on a chart or plotting sheet. Navigation Templates – Sun Observation provides a structured and clear way to record observations, calculations and intermediate results.
The template has been developed for practical use during navigation and makes it easier to follow the classic steps in a sight reduction process. It can be used both in maritime education and by sailors who want to practice classic astronavigation or conduct observations without the use of electronic navigation systems.
Navigation Templates are often used in conjunction with sextant, Nautical Almanac, sight reduction tables and plotting sheets. Together, these tools allow the navigator to determine position based on celestial observations, a method that has been used in maritime navigation for hundreds of years.
