Description
Book SynopsisDespite the proliferation of electronic navigational devices, celestial navigation remains an essential tool for those who do not wish to be caught short when modern technology fails. In this easy-to-use guide, Hewitt Schlereth explains clearly and concisely how to navigate any stretch of sea using only a handheld sextant, a watch, a plotting sheet and a copy of the Nautical Almanac. The basic process is simple: take a sight with a sextant, establish a secondary reference or benchmark sight, compare the two, and plot the results of the comparison on a chart. Celestial Navigation in a Nutshell demonstrates how to take sights by the sun, moon, stars and planets, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each method. The reader is taken carefully through several examples and situational illustrations, making this a most effective self-teaching guide. Common errors are reviewed and several tips on how to improve accuracy are given.
Trade ReviewWhy would anyone want to learn celestial navigation? The answer: Because it will satisfy your soul. * Sailing *
... covers everything you need to know to become an expert celestial navigator. Schlereth's approach and style is decidedly hands-on. * Cruising World *
"Clear, concise description of the old-style (non-GPS) offshore navigation using a sextant, a chronometer, H.O. 249 tables, the Nautical Almanac and a plotting sheet--essential for the inevitable day when the electronics give out."--Wooden Boat * Wooden Boat *
Table of ContentsPreface Introduction Part I- Our Star: Navigation by the Sun Chapter 1- The Big Picture Chapter 2- Mirror, Mirror Chapter 3- Celestial Navigation in Theory Chapter 4- Columns of Numbers Chapter 5- Celestial Navigation in Practice Chapter 6- More Columns of Numbers Chapter 7- Plot, Counterplot Chapter 8- Noon Sight for Latitude Part II- Neighbors: Navigation by the Planets Chapter 9- Identification Chapter 10- Venus, Goddess of the Twilight Chapter 11- The Outer Planets Chapter 12- The Edge of Night Part III- The Astral Archipelago: Navigation by Stars Chapter 13- A Handful of Stars Chapter 14- The Pole Star Part IV- Luna: Navigation by the Moon Chapter 15- The Moon Afterword Index
