Star Navigation Techniques Based on Celestial Bodies
In the face of growing concerns about cyber warfare interfering with GPS navigation devices, the United States Naval Academy has decided to reinstate celestial navigation, a method that has been in use since man first ventured into the ocean. This revival was supported by Dr. Jerry Coleman from the University of Maryland, College Park.
The Naval Academy phased out celestial navigation in the 1990s, but it is slowly making a comeback, starting this fall semester. Captain Terry Caraway, in a statement, highlighted the potential risk of GPS being shut down in a national emergency due to its potential use by potential enemies.
Celestial navigation does not require any form of electronics, making it an attractive alternative in a world where cyber threats are on the rise. However, it's important to note that celestial navigation is not an exact science and can only get within 1.5 miles of a target.
Ancient navigators used sextants and other instruments to approximate their position and stay on course with celestial navigation. They made use of the moon and stars, and this ancient skill could become necessary in the near future for those who plan to spend time at sea.
The Capital Gazette has an article on the Naval Academy's choice to reinstate celestial navigation, shedding light on this interesting development in naval education. Learning celestial navigation can be beneficial for those who plan to spend time at sea in the future, providing a valuable skill in the event of potential GPS disruptions.
Read also:
- Captivating Shots of the Perseids Meteor Shower
- VinFast Accelerates Globally, Leveraging Vingroup's Technological and Financial Foundation
- Transformation of Decarbonization Objectives in the Iron Ore Pellets Sector
- Anticipated European Energy Requirements for Battery Cell Manufacturing Predicted by Scientists
