Celestial navigation is a technique used by mariners and aviators to determine their position on Earth by observing celestial bodies such as stars, planets, the Sun, and the Moon. This method relies on measuring angles between these celestial objects and the horizon using a sextant, along with accurate timekeeping and navigational tables to calculate latitude and longitude.

Celestial Navigation

Celestial navigation

mariners

aviators

position on Earth

Celestial bodies are natural physical entities found in the universe, including stars, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and meteoroids. They are studied to understand the formation, structure, and evolution of the universe, as well as the potential for life beyond Earth.

celestial bodies

तारे विशाल गैसों के खगोलीय निकाय हैं जो अपनी अत्यधिक गर्मी और ऊर्जा के कारण प्रकाश और गर्मी का उत्सर्जन करते हैं। ये तारे ब्रह्माण्ड के विकास और संरचना में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाते हैं।

stars

planets

the Sun

the Moon

measuring angles

The horizon is the apparent line that separates the Earth from the sky, where the sky seems to meet the surface of the Earth. It is a fundamental concept in geography and astronomy, influencing navigation, perception, and visual aesthetics.

horizon

A sextant is a navigational instrument used to measure the angle between two visible objects, typically the horizon and a celestial body, to determine a ship's latitude and longitude at sea. It is an essential tool in celestial navigation, allowing mariners to accurately chart their course before the advent of GPS technology.

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