CELESTIAL NAVIGATION

The art of the sextant and the satisfaction there derived.

The ability to navigate by celestial observation is a hallmark for the self-sufficient sailor. While electronic navigation has introduced a remarkable level of accuracy and convenience, it has also fostered new standards of complacency and reliance on systems that could fail without warning. Additionally, an understanding of the concepts of celestial navigation complements other aspects of offshore piloting, including deduced or “dead” reckoning, great circle navigation, and compass correction. The famous Marion to Bermuda Race also allows a significant time allowance for yachts utilizing celestial navigation.

The theory of celestial navigation is not complex, and the satisfaction derived from accurately determining your position fully rewards the practitioner. This course will emphasize the simple relationship between the altitude of an observed body and the distance to its geographical position. Sight reduction provides an iterative plotting technique for determining your position.

We will begin with explanations of the theory, move to noon sights of the sun, and then to advancing morning and afternoon sun shots to acquire running fixes. This is the staple of celestial navigation used on small boats. Once the concepts and practice are understood, the use of the stars, planets, and moon will be explained. The use of programmable calculators to perform sight reduction is also a potential topic.

Students are expected to have a working knowledge of coastal navigation and piloting. A working sextant will be helpful but not required. Additionally, a trip out on Jericho Bay will allow practice of estimating local apparent noon and working sun shots. Despite the incredible power of modern electronics, the sextant is still a practical and widely used tool aboard vessels large and small. After this fascinating week with Paul, you’ll be a much more confident sailor and navigator

Tuition: $700