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Most likely a product of confusion between the similar-sounding words "sextant", an astronomical or navigational instrument, and "sexton", the overseer of a church cemetery.

For large churches, the sexton may supervise other individuals whose job it is to do the actual groundskeeping, record keeping, etc. associated with the cemetery; for small ones, he may perform much of the work himself, though the traditional digging of new graves is now usually done by hired contractors instead.

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What is the the least count of sextant?

The least count of a sextant is the smallest angle that can be measured with the instrument. It is typically determined by the design of the sextant and the precision of its scales. The least count is important for accurately measuring angles in celestial navigation and other applications where precise angular measurements are required.


Who invented and used the first sextant?

The sextant was developed in the 18th century, with significant contributions from several inventors. The first practical sextant is attributed to British instrument maker John Hadley, who created a working model around 1730. However, the design was also influenced by earlier navigational instruments such as the quadrant and the astrolabe. The sextant became widely used by sailors for celestial navigation, allowing them to measure the angle between a celestial body and the horizon.


What is the purpose of the horizon shades on a sextant?

The horizon shades on a sextant are used to block out excess light from the sun or other bright sources on the horizon, making it easier to take accurate measurements of celestial objects such as stars or planets. They help to reduce glare and improve visibility when using the sextant for navigation or celestial observations.


Who built the sextant?

The sextant was developed independently by multiple inventors in the late 18th century, including John Hadley and Thomas Godfrey. It is unclear who specifically should be credited with its invention, as the device was refined over time by various individuals.


How do you use a false horizon with a sextant?

To use a false horizon with a sextant, you would need to create an artificial horizon with a still reflecting surface, such as oil in a pan or a small pool of water. You would then line up the celestial body you are measuring with its reflection on the artificial horizon, allowing you to take an accurate sextant reading. This method is useful when the true horizon is obscured or not visible.

Related Questions

What can you find out about sextant?

you can find sextant on history.com


What is the sextant used for?

you use a sextant to navigate.


How do you draw a sextant?

you draw a sextant by looking at googler in the images.


How do you use the word sextant in a sentence?

the sextant helped me navagate my way to alaska


How many years sextant becomes a symbol of navigation?

how many years that the sextant become a symbol of navigation


Did Columbus use a sextant?

Yes Christopher Columbus did use a sextant along with a compass, ampoletta, and a cross staff.


What has replaced the astrolabe?

The sextant


What replaced the astrolabe?

The sextant


Why sextant is named so?

The term "sextant" comes from the Latin word "sextans," meaning one-sixth. This refers to the instrument's ability to measure angles up to one-sixth of a circle (60 degrees). The sextant is commonly used in navigation to determine the altitude of celestial bodies.


What is a sextant box?

A sextant box is a protective case designed to store and transport a sextant, a navigational instrument used to measure the angle between celestial objects and the horizon. Typically made of durable materials, it ensures the sextant is safeguarded from physical damage and environmental elements. The box often includes compartments for additional accessories, such as a sighting telescope or a polishing cloth. Proper storage in a sextant box helps maintain the accuracy and longevity of the instrument.


Who made the first sextant?

my mom


What instrument measures the horizon?

A sextant