Historically, latitude was always measured with the sextant, and
longitude with the chronograph (clock). Nowadays, it's all GPS.
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The "sextant", from the latin word for "six", is one-sixth of a circle, and is the primary tool used in celestial navigation. However, before the sextant came into widespread use, the "quadrant" of a quarter-circle and the later "octant", an eighth of a circle, were used.
A marine chronometer measures time. It is a very precise instrument because it can also be used to measure the longitude of the ship at sea using the time shown and the angle of the sun.
John Harrison developed the first practical marine chronometer, H4, to accurately calculate longitude at sea. This invention revolutionized navigation by providing a reliable method for determining a ship's exact position, therefore improving the safety and efficiency of long-distance sea travel. Harrison's work directly contributed to the solving of the "longitude problem" and significantly advanced maritime exploration and trade.
Latitude and longitude have been used for navigation and mapping for centuries. However, the modern system of latitude and longitude was established in the 18th century with the development of accurate methods for determining a ship's position at sea.
That point is about 50 miles west of Istanbul, in the Sea of Marmara.
Latitude - 44°25'50" North Longitude - 26°06'50" East
A marine chronometer measures time. It is a very precise instrument because it can also be used to measure the longitude of the ship at sea using the time shown and the angle of the sun.
Astrolabe.
an amplifier
bathometer
Caspian Sea
PERISCOPE
John Harrison developed the first practical marine chronometer, H4, to accurately calculate longitude at sea. This invention revolutionized navigation by providing a reliable method for determining a ship's exact position, therefore improving the safety and efficiency of long-distance sea travel. Harrison's work directly contributed to the solving of the "longitude problem" and significantly advanced maritime exploration and trade.
The sextant. An astronomical instrument used to determine latitude and longitude at sea by measuring angular distances, esp. the altitudes of sun, moon, and stars. The chronometer. An extremely accurate clock or other timepiece. Chronometers are used in scientific experiments, navigation, and astronomical observations. It was the invention of a chronometer capable of being used aboard ship, in 1762, that allowed navigators for the first time to accurately determine their longitude at sea.
Latitude and longitude have been used for navigation and mapping for centuries. However, the modern system of latitude and longitude was established in the 18th century with the development of accurate methods for determining a ship's position at sea.
Mediterranean sea
Latitude: N 41° 54' 8.8657", Longitude: E 50° 37' 44.8315"
That point is about 50 miles west of Istanbul, in the Sea of Marmara.