Grade 11 – Nautical Science

October 20, 2020

Uses of the sextant

Although the marine sextant is seldom used these days due to the introduction of satellite navigation systems (ie GPS), it still can be used for the following: Measuring the altitude of the stars, sun, moon and planets in order to determine geographical position out of sight of land (ocean navigation). […]
Do you like it?0
0 Read more
October 20, 2020

Parts of the sextant

The sextant is made up of the following parts: The frame. The handle. The telescope or monocle. The rising piece. The arc. The index arm. The clamp. The worm and rack. The micrometer drum. The micrometervernier. Electric light. The index mirror. The index mirror clips. The index mirror (first) adjustment […]
Do you like it?0
0 Read more
October 20, 2020

Sextant case and accessories

Depending on type and manufacturer, the sextant case will either be made of a hardwood or plastic. The wooden cases are fitted with a carrying handle, patent fasteners, lock and key. Inside the case are wooden chocks built to prevent the sextant being dislodged. The plastic case does not have […]
Do you like it?0
0 Read more
October 20, 2020

Housing the sextant

Before housing the sextant in its case, set the index arm to the middle of the graduated arc and turn all the shades inwards (ie towards the centre of the instrument). Place the sextant carefully in the box ensuring that the three legs at the rear of the instrument enter […]
Do you like it?0
0 Read more
Prev page
1234567891011121314151617181920212223
Next page