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Sailors use a sextant to navigate by measuring the angle between celestial bodies, such as the sun and stars, and the horizon. This instrument allows them to determine their latitude and longitude, which is essential for charting their course at sea. By taking observations at specific times and using astronomical tables, sailors can accurately pinpoint their position. The sextant has been a critical tool in maritime navigation for centuries.

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2mo ago

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Which invention helped sailors navigate using stars?

The invention that significantly aided sailors in navigating using stars is the astrolabe. This ancient instrument allowed navigators to measure the angle of celestial bodies above the horizon, helping them determine their latitude at sea. By using the astrolabe, sailors could more accurately chart their courses and improve their navigation during long voyages.


What is the tool that sailors used to determine their position at sea?

Sailors traditionally used a sextant to determine their position at sea. This navigational instrument measures the angle between a celestial body, such as the sun or stars, and the horizon. By knowing the time of the measurement and using celestial charts, sailors could calculate their latitude and longitude, helping them navigate accurately across the oceans.


How did the astrolabe make life easier?

The sailors could finally figure out where they were and what direction they were headed, using the astrolabe and stars to track their progress.That way, they didn't have to guess where they were out at sea.


How can astronomy help you if you get lost?

Astronomy can help you find your direction when lost by using the stars as a guide. By knowing how to locate specific stars or constellations in the night sky, you can determine your approximate location and which way is north, south, east, or west. This method, known as celestial navigation, has been used for centuries by sailors and explorers.


What prevented sailors from getting lost without modern technology?

Sailors used celestial navigation techniques, such as using the positions of stars, sun, and moon, to determine their location at sea. They also relied on landmarks, compasses, and maps to navigate their way. Additionally, they would track the movement of ocean currents and bird migrations to help guide them on their journey.

Related Questions

What is coastal and celestial navigation?

The old sailors went hugging the coast line. Using the stars to navigate is called celestial navigation.


It is theorized that early Polynesian sailors were able to navigate vast regions of the Pacific by at least what three means?

By Using the sun, moon and stars


Which invention helped sailors navigate using stars?

The invention that significantly aided sailors in navigating using stars is the astrolabe. This ancient instrument allowed navigators to measure the angle of celestial bodies above the horizon, helping them determine their latitude at sea. By using the astrolabe, sailors could more accurately chart their courses and improve their navigation during long voyages.


How were astrolabes used?

they where used to navigate using sun and stars :)


Who taught the Mycenaean's to navigate using the sun and stars?

The minoans


Who taught the mycenaeans to navigate using the sun and stars?

The minoans


What is the tool that sailors used to determine their position at sea?

Sailors traditionally used a sextant to determine their position at sea. This navigational instrument measures the angle between a celestial body, such as the sun or stars, and the horizon. By knowing the time of the measurement and using celestial charts, sailors could calculate their latitude and longitude, helping them navigate accurately across the oceans.


How does the mecrator projection helps sailors navigate?

The Mercator projection helps sailors navigate by preserving straight lines on a map that align with compass directions. This makes it easier to plot a course using a straight line on the map as a reference for constant heading.


How did the astrolabe make life easier?

The sailors could finally figure out where they were and what direction they were headed, using the astrolabe and stars to track their progress.That way, they didn't have to guess where they were out at sea.


How do sailors navigate the challenges of close-hauled sailing to efficiently maneuver their boats against the wind?

Sailors navigate close-hauled sailing challenges by adjusting the angle of their sails and using a zigzag technique called tacking to move their boats efficiently against the wind.


What was the main method of mapping in the US before the 1940's?

Using the stars to navigate


What are four ways that Polynesians were probably able to navigate the Pacific?

Using the sun moon and stars