Quartermaster 1 & C: Navedtra

Re-Distributed by http://www.tpub.
com
NONRESIDENT
TRAINING
COURSE
April 1995
Quartermaster 1 & C
NAVEDTRA 14220
NOTICE
Pages 4-30, 4-31, 4-32, and 4-33 must be

printed on a COLOR printer.
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Re-Distributed by http://www.tpub.com
Although the words “he,” “him,” and

“his” are used sparingly in this course to
enhance communication, they are not
intended to be gender driven or to affront or
discriminate against anyone.
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

COMMANDING OFFICER
NETPDTC
6490 SAUFLEY FIELD RD
PENSACOLA, FL 32509-5237
ERRATA #3 18 Jul 2000
Specific Instructions and Errata for

Nonresident Training Course
QUARTERMASTER 1 & C
1. This errata supersedes all previous erratas. No attempt has been made to
issue corrections for errors in typing, punctuation, etc ., that do not affect
your ability to answer the question or questions.
2. To receive credit for deleted questions, show this errata to your local
course administrator (ESO/scorer). The local course administrator is directed
to correct the course and the answer key by indicating the questions deleted.
3. Assignment Booklet
Delete the following questions, and leave the corresponding spaces blank
on the answer sheets:
Questions Questions Questions
1-30 3-29 4-33

1-38 3-33 4-34
2-9 3-34 4-35
2-30 3-35 4-38
2-37 3-36 4-42
3-5 4-7 4-52
3-8 4-9 5-28
3-13 4-27 5-29
3-26 4-29 6-17
3-27 4-32 6-18
PREFACE
By enrolling in this self-study course, you have demonstrated a desire to improve yourself and the Navy.
Remember, however, this self-study course is only one part of the total Navy training program. Practical
experience, schools, selected reading, and your desire to succeed are also necessary to successfully round
out a fully meaningful training program.
COURSE OVERVIEW: Upon completion of this course, you will have a basic knowledge of determining
magnetic compass error and preparing deviation tables, voyage planning, assisting the navigator, ship
operation, and weather.
THE COURSE: This self-study course is organized into subject matter areas, each containing learning
objectives to help you determine what you should learn along with text and illustrations to help you
understand the information. The subject matter reflects day-to-day requirements and experiences of
personnel in the rating or skill area. It also reflects guidance provided by Enlisted Community Managers
(ECMs) and other senior personnel, technical references, instructions, etc., and either the occupational or
naval standards, which are listed in the Manual of Navy Enlisted Manpower Personnel Classifications
and Occupational Standards, NAVPERS 18068.
THE QUESTIONS: The questions that appear in this course are designed to help you understand the
material in the text.
VALUE: In completing this course, you will improve your military and professional knowledge.
Importantly, it can also help you study for the Navy-wide advancement in rate examination. If you are
studying and discover a reference in the text to another publication for further information, look it up.
1995 Edition Prepared by

QMC(SW) Jeffrey W. Yauger
QMC(SW) Steven C. Zdanowicz
Reviewed by
QMC(SW) Pearce J. G. Durrance
QMC(SW) Marvin L. Moon
SMC(SW) Billy W. Hosey
Published by
NAVAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER
NAVSUP Logistics Tracking Number

0504-LP-026-8590
i
Sailor’s Creed
“I am a United States Sailor.
I will support and defend the

Constitution of the United States of
America and I will obey the orders
of those appointed over me.
I represent the fighting spirit of the

Navy and those who have gone
before me to defend freedom and
democracy around the world.
I proudly serve my country’s Navy

combat team with honor, courage
and commitment.
I am committed to excellence and

the fair treatment of all.”
ii
QUARTERMASTER-Table of Contents
Chapters
INTRODUCTION TO NAVIGATION ................. 1-1
COMPASSES ................................... 2-1
NAVIGATIONAL PUBLICATIONS .................. 3-1
THE NAUTICAL ROAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
BASICS OF TIME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
INTRODUCTION TO CELESTIAL NAVIGATION . . . . . . . 6-1
TIDES AND CURRENTS .......................... 7-1
DEAD RECKONING, PILOTING, AND ELECTRONIC

NAVIGATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
CELESTIAL OBSERVATIONS AND SIGHT REDUCTION

METHODS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1
WEATHER OBSERVATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
THE SHIP’S BRIDGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
VOYAGE PLANNING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1
Appendices
GLOSSARY .................................... AI-1
REFERENCES .................................. AII-1
INDEX ........................................ INDEX-l
iii
QUARTERMASTER -Table of Contents, Continued
CHAPTER 1— INTRODUCTION TO NAVIGATION
Origins and Primary Areas of Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Problems Associated with Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Earth and the Terrestrial Coordinate System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Reference Lines on Earth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Nautical Chart Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
Chart Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
Chart Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Latitude and Longitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18
How to Measure Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
How to Determine or Plot Direction on a Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
How to Plot a Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
How to Extract Latitude and Longitude from a Known Position . . . . . . . . 1-22
Defense Mapping Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
DMA Stock Numbering System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
The Nautical Chart Numbering System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26
Chart Correction System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
Chart Card Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
Chart Correction Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-35
Chart Ordering System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-37
Ordering, Labeling, and Stowing Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-38
CHAPTER 2— COMPASSES
The Magnetic Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Earth’s Magnetic Field and Magnetism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Compass Components, Types, and Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Magnetic Compass Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
The Shipboard Degaussing System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Magnetic Compass Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
The Gyrocompass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
Tools Used to Determine and Plot Direction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
Gyrocompass Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23
Magnetic Compass Record Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
How to Determine Gyro Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
iv
CHAPTER 3— NAVIGATIONAL PUBLICATIONS
Navigational Publication Quick Reference Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Coast Pilots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Fleet Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Sailing Directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
List of Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Tide Tables and Tidal Current Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Pilot Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
World Port Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Distances Between Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Almanacs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Sight Reduction Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Publication Correction and Ordering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
CHAPTER 4— THE NAUTICAL ROAD
Navigational Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

How to Use the Light List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Characteristics of Lighted Aids to Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Visibility of Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Types of Lights and Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Sector Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Buoys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
Buoyage Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28
The United States System of Aids to Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30
Rules of the Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-39
Maneuvering and Warning Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-44
CHAPTER 5— BASICS OF TIME
Apparent Time and Mean Solar Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Definition of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Standard Time Zones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
The Relationship Between Time and Longitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
How to Convert Arc to Time Using The Nautical Almanac . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10
How to Convert Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Time and Date for Ships at Sea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13
Timepieces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
Chronometer Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
v
CHAPTER 5— BASICS OF TIME, continued
Documenting Chronometer Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17

How to Determine Daily Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
Timing Celestial Observations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-19
CHAPTER 6— INTRODUCTION TO CELESTIAL NAVIGATION
Earth and the Celestial Sphere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Understanding the Celestial Coordinate System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Using The Nautical Almanac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
How to Determine the Time of Sunrise, Sunset, and Twilight . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
How to Determine the Time of Moonrise and Moonset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
How to Determine Selected Stars Using Pub 249 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9
How to Determine Selected Stars Using The Rude Starfinder . . . . . . . . . 6-12
CHAPTER 7— TIDES AND CURRENTS
Effect of the Sun and Moon on Tides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

Types of Tides and Reference Planes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Tide Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
How to Determine the Height of Tide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
How to Graph Tide Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12
Tidal Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16
Tidal Current Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-18
Current Calculations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19
How to Graph Tidal Currents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-23
CHAPTER 8— DEAD RECKONING, PILOTING, AND ELECTRONIC

NAVIGATION
The DR Plot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Terms Associated with the DR Plot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Time, Speed, and Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Using the Nautical Slide Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Practice Time, Speed, and Distance Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
Example DR Plot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
Labeling the DR Plot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11
Plan of Intended Movement (PIM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12
Plotting Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13
Plotting Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15
vi
CHAPTER 8— DEAD RECKONING, PILOTING, AND ELECTRONIC

NAVIGATION, continued
Labeling the Course Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17

Piloting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-18
Lines of Position and Fixes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-20
Determining the Ship’s Position Using True Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-21
Determining the Ship’s Position Using Relative Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-22
The Marine Sextant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-24
Determining the Ship’s Position Using Sextant Angles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-33
Determining the Ship’s Position by Running Fix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-39
Using the Fathometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-41
Loran Time Difference Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-43
Satellite Navigation Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-44
Navigational Radar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-49
Other Electronic Navigation Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-53
CHAPTER 9— CELESTIAL OBSERVATIONS AND SIGHT REDUCTION

METHODS
Methods For Finding Gyrocompass Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

Azimuth of the Sun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Azimuth by Polaris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11
Amplitude of the Sun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-12
The Celestial LOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17
Altitude Corrections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
How to Reduce a Sunline Using Pub 229 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-24
Plotting One or More LOPs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28
Reducing Stars, Planets, and the Moon Using Pub 229 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31
Reducing Sights Using Pub 249 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-32
Latitude by Local Apparent Noon (LAN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-36
CHAPTER 10— WEATHER OBSERVATION
The Atmosphere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

Circulation of the Wind Upon Earth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Cloud Formations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6
Cloud Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-8
Atmospheric Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11
Pressure Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Frontal Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15
vii
CHAPTER 10— WEATHER OBSERVATION, continued
Wind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-19
Temperature, Dew Point, and Relative Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-26
Weather Observation and Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
CHAPTER 11— THE SHIP’S BRIDGE
Bridge Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3

Ship’s Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-7
Steering the Ship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-11
Navigational Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-15
External Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-19
Bridge Watch Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-21
Relieving the QMOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-25
Commanding Officer’s Night Order Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-26
The Ship’s Deck Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-27
General Duties of the QMOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-34
CHAPTER 12— VOYAGE PLANNING
Planning and Constructing Great Circle Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2

Planning and Constructing Coastal Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-6
Planning and Constructing Restricted Water Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-7
Constructing Turn Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-8
Constructing Danger Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-10
Precision Anchoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13
Navigation Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-21
Departing Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-22
Entering Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-25
APPENDICES
GLOSSARY .................................................... AI-1
REFERENCES .................................................... AII-1
INDEX .................................................... INDEX-1
viii
INSTRUCTIONS FOR TAKING THE COURSE
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xi
CHAPTER 1
Introduction to Navigation
Introduction In this chapter, you will be introduced to the world of navigation. As a

Quartermaster, you will be engaged in many aspects of navigation. As
you will learn, navigation is known as both an art and a science. Don’t
be put off by the science end though, a basic knowledge of mathematics
will suffice your needs. There is no feeling that compares to knowing
that you are part of a team that safely navigates a ship and her crew
across vast expanses of ocean.
You will be a highly visible member of the ship’s crew, after all, your
work station is on the bridge. The bridge is where the captain spends
most of his or her time under way. The bridge is where the orders are
given for the ship to carry out her mission. QMs traditionally maintain
the highest standards of grooming, pride, and professionalism. You
will become the trusted assistant of the navigator, bridge watch officers,
and the captain.
Objectives The material in this chapter will enable the student to:
Describe a dead reckoned track.

Describe the Terrestrial Coordinate System.
Measure distance on a Mercator projection chart.
Interpret chart symbology.
Plot and extract positions on a chart.
Plot direction on a chart.
Determine chart accuracy.
Find charts using DMA Hydrographic catalog.
Describe the Chart Correction System and correct charts from Notice
to Mariners.
Order, label, and stow charts.
l-l
Topics
Topic Page
Origins and Primary Areas of Navigation 1-3
Problems Associated with Navigation 1-6
Earth and the Terrestrial Coordinate System 1-8
Reference Lines on Earth 1-9
Nautical Chart Interpretation 1-13
Chart Scale 1-16
Chart Accuracy 1-17
Latitude and Longitude 1-18
How to Measure Distance 1-19
How to Determine or Plot Direction on a Chart 1-20
How to Plot a Position 1-21
How to Extract Latitude and Longitude from a Known 1-22
Position
Defense Mapping Agency 1-23
DMA Stock Numbering System 1-25
The Nautical Chart Numbering System 1-26
Chart Correction System 1-28
Chart Card Maintenance 1-33
Chart Correction Techniques 1-35
Chart Ordering System 1-37
Ordering, Labelling, and Stowing Charts 1-38
1-2
Origins and Primary Areas of Navigation
Background From the beginning of recorded time, man has traveled on the water.
He left port without the ability to steer a course. He was at the mercy
of the sea, with his direction being determined by the wind and currents.
Eventually, he faced the problem of how to get to where he wanted to
go. As a result of this problem-solving process, navigation was born.
The early days of navigation were dubious at best. During this period in
time, navigation was considered an art. This soon changed with the
addition of science.
Modern day navigation has aspects of both, it is considered an art and a

science. On one hand, navigation is a precise science comprised of
complicated mathematics, precision instruments, and state of the art
machinery. On the other hand, it is the skill in the use of these tools
and the interpretation of information that is an art. Many operations
conducted in the area of navigation require the use of precise
instruments and mathematical tables and sound judgment based on
experience.
The seasoned navigator uses all available information and a certain

measure of judgment to say “Our position is here on a chart.”
Primary Areas Navigation is divided into four primary areas: piloting, dead reckoning,
of Navigation celestial navigation, and radionavigation. These areas are listed in the
sequence in which they probably evolved as knowledge and abilities
progressed. We will now briefly look at each area.
Piloting Piloting may be defined as the movement of a vessel with continuous

reference to landmarks, aids to navigation, depth sounding, and
radionavigation.
Example: Our early navigator probably departed port and set his or her
course towards a distant landmark. This may have been any number of
things, an offshore island or a lone jagged rock outcropping. The
navigator steered on this landmark and tracked his progress by
landmarks passing down the port and starboard sides of his ship.
Piloting as a technique has not changed. The difference between our

early navigator and the present navigator is the use of technology.
1-3
Origins and Primary Areas of Navigation, Continued
Dead Reckoning Dead reckoning (DR) can be defined as projecting an intended course
and speed from a known point. As our early navigators ventured further
from land, they needed a method to estimate position. With no visible
landmarks to use as a reference, early navigators estimated course and
speed on the chart. Dead reckoning does not consider the effects of
wind or current.
Figure 1-1 illustrates a sample DR plot. From the 0800 fix the ship’s
course and speed is plotted. A DR plot is maintained on board naval
vessels under way at all times. It is the best estimate of where the ship
should be at any given time. The DR plot also gives the navigator a
visual sign of whether the ship is steering towards danger or not. The
DR plot will be covered in greater detail in chapter 8.
Figure 1-1. Example of a DR track.
Celestial Celestial navigation may be defined as the practice of observing celestial

Navigation bodies (the Sun, Moon, stars, and planets) to determine the ship’s
position.
The early navigators recognized the need to overcome the shortcomings

of dead reckoning. They soon developed techniques to observe the
heavenly bodies to determine their position. Although the instruments
used first were crude, they have steadily improved. An experienced QM
may now obtain a celestial fix within one-tenth of a mile of the ship’s
position.
1-4
Origins and Primary Areas of Navigation, Continued
Celestial How is this accomplished? Measurements are taken of the height above
Navigation the horizon of a celestial body. The measurement or sight, as it is
commonly referred to, is then reduced by a mathematical procedure.
The results are then plotted on the chart to determine position (fig. 1-2).
Celestial navigation will be covered in greater detail in chapters 6 and 9.
Radionavigation Radionavigation may be defined as the determination of position by the

use of radio waves. There are several types of systems in use today.
From the now seldom used Radio Direction Finder (RDF) to the latest
satellite navigation system, what they all have in common is that they
use radio waves. This area of navigation is now sometimes referred to
as electronic navigation. This subject matter will be covered in greater
detail in chapter 8.
Figure 1-2. Sextant angle and sample 3 star fix.
1-5
Problems Associated with Navigation
Information As you have learned, navigation is an art and a science. Our early
navigators experienced the same problems that face the modem
navigators. There are three major problems of navigation that must
always be addressed. These problems are:
How to determine position

How to determine the direction to get from point A to point B
How to determine the distance between points, the time it will
take, and the speed as the navigator proceeds
Determining Of the three problems facing the navigator, the most basic and also the
Position most important is determining position. The ship’s position must be
known to safely and accurately direct the movements of the ship.
The term position refers to a known point on Earth. QMs refer to a

position as a fix. It may also be qualified by an adjective such as
estimated and dead reckoned.
Measuring Direction is the orientation of a line drawn or imagined joining two

Direction positions without any regard to the distance between them. Direction on
charts is measured in angular units using a polar coordinate system (a
coordinate system based on the North Pole and South Pole). The
reference used is normally true north.
Figure 1-3
shows a line
drawn between
two positions.
The direction
may be
determined
from the
compass rose.
Direction is
measured from
000° T through
360° T.
Figure 1-3. Compass rose.
1-6
Problems Associated with Navigation, Continued
Direction Knowing the direction between two positions makes it possible for the
navigator to lay a course from where he is to where he wants to go and
then to proceed to that point. Direction will be presented in greater
detail later in this chapter.
Measuring The distance between two points is the physical separation without
Distance regard to direction. Nautical distance is measured as the international
nautical mile (nmi) of 6, 076.1 feet. The nmi is longer than the statute
mile (mi) used on land, 5, 280 feet; 1.15/1 is a simple ratio often used
to convert nmi to mi.
Time Time in navigation is always based on the 24-hour clock. You are
already familiar with this type of timekeeping as it is what we use in the
military.
Speed Speed is defined as the rate of movement. In navigation speed is

referred to as nautical miles per hours or knots (kn).
We can now put this all together. We have defined the major problems
associated with navigation. The solutions to these problems are
contained in later text. We know that the navigator must determine
position, direction, and distance to travel. But how does speed and time
figure in this picture?
The That brings us to the time, speed, and distance triangle. If you know the
Relationship distance you need to travel and at what speed you will proceed, you can
Between Time, use simple mathematics to determine how long it should take to travel
Speed, and that distance. This is a triangle, because if you know any two values
Distance (time, speed, or distance) you can solve for the unknown value. That
brings us to the next subject. Where does this information go? How
does one actually go from one known position to another known
position safely? The answer is the nautical chart! The remainder of this
chapter will explore the nautical chart and how the QM uses it.
1-7
Earth and the Terrestrial Coordinate System
Background Before we begin to examine the nautical chart, we must first understand
some facts about Earth itself.
Facts about Earth

It is not a perfect sphere
The diameter at the Equator equals approximately 6,888 nautical miles.
The polar diameter is approximately 6,865 nautical miles, or 23 miles
less than the diameter at the Equator.
Technically it is classified as an oblate spheroid (a sphere flattened at
the poles.)
Figure 1-4. Earth.
For the purposes of navigation, we assume that we are working with a

perfect sphere. The differences between the two diameters are small
enough to be considered insignificant.
Nautical charts do NOT take Earth’s oblateness into account.
1-8
Reference Lines on Earth
Information To locate a position on Earth’s surface, you must first have some point
to start from. If you imagine Earth in motion, you will notice that it
spins on its axis. The axis is the imaginary line drawn between the
North Pole and South Pole that forms the first point of reference. The
second point of reference is the Equator, which divides Earth into two
parts, the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere.
We now have our starting points. For practical application in locating a

position, two points of reference were not adequate so we had to create
great and small circles around Earth.
Great Circles A great circle is formed by a

plane passing through the
center of Earth. Figure 1-5
illustrates our imaginary line
that connects the North Pole
and South Pole. The great
circle passes directly through
the center of Earth, but more
importantly, around Earth‘s
surface. The Equator is also a
great circle. Figure 1-5. Examples of great circles.
Small Circles A small circle is formed by

planes that do not pass
through the center of Earth.
Figure 1-6 illustrates several
small circles. How will these
circles allow us to find our
position? The answer is that
certain great circles and small
circles have special meaning
for navigation purposes.
They are called parallels of
latitude and meridians of
longitude. Figure 1-6. Examples of small circles.
1-9
Reference Lines on Earth, Continued
Parallels of Parallels are the small circles

Latitude around and on Earth’s surface.
For navigation, parallels of
latitude have been established.
They are all parallel to the
plane of the Equator. Figure
1-7 illustrates parallels of
latitude. Since they are all
parallel to the Equator, latitude
can be measured towards the
North Pole and South Pole.
Figure 1-7. Examples of parallels of

latitude.
How Latitude is Latitude is

Measured measured in
degrees (°),
minutes ('), and
seconds (") north or
south of the
Equator.
Measurements of
latitude cannot
exceed 90° in either
direction. This is
due to the fact that
the Equator is
always
perpendicular (at a
right angle) from
the great circle that
forms the plane Figure 1-8. Measurement of latitude.
through the North
Pole and South Pole.
Figure 1-8 illustrates this clearly. Do not confuse angular expressions of

minutes and seconds with units of time because they are unrelated.
1-10
Reference Lines on Earth, Continued
Meridians of Meridians of longitude are the great circles. They all pass through the
Longitude center of Earth. The prime meridian or 0° of longitude is the starting
point for all longitude measurements. Longitude is measured in same
manner as latitude except that it is measured east or west throughout
180°. The prime meridian is also known as the Greenwich meridian. It
is so named because is passes directly through Greenwich, England.
Latitude and longitude comprise the terrestrial or geographic coordinate

system. Figure 1-9 illustrates how a position is located on a chart. We
will discuss the mechanics of plotting a position on a nautical chart later
in this chapter. Before we can do that we have to learn more about the
charts we use.
Figure 1-9. Locating a position on a nautical chart.
1-11
The Nautical Chart
Background A nautical chart is like a road map for the world’s oceans and inland
waterways. The nautical chart is designed especially for navigation. A
chart is a printed reproduction of Earth’s surface showing a plan view of
the water and land areas. It contains parallels and meridians to use
when plotting a position, locating aids to navigation, and much more.
Chart The task of putting the round Earth on flat paper is a complex one. This
Projections text will not go into great detail on chart projections. More information
on this subject may be found in Dutton's Navigation and Piloting. We
will discuss the two projections most widely used in today’s Navy and
by mariners in general.
Mercator Mercator projection charts are the most commonly used navigational
Projections charts. Therefore, it is important that you understand the characteristics
of these charts. The first thing to understand is that no navigational
chart is perfect.
Example: Cut a hollow rubber ball in half and try to flatten it out, you
cannot do so without tearing or stretching the rubber. In fact, no
section of the hemisphere will lie flat without some amount of
distortion. No system of projection has yet been devised that preserves
the exact true proportions of the original sphere.
Mercator projections almost always display meridians and parallels.

Meridians run from the top to the bottom of the chart, parallels run from
the left to the right. Due to distortion in high latitudes, this projection
rarely exceeds 70° north or south.
Advantages: The Mercator projection shows a rhumb line as a straight

line. A rhumb line is nothing more than a compass course or direction
plotted by the navigator to show that he will follow from his point of
departure to his destination.
Gnomonic The gnomonic projection’s chief advantage is that it plots a great circle
Projections as a straight line. This is most useful when planning long ocean
passages. It is always best to take the shortest route from point A to
point B. This projection will be covered in greater detail in chapter 12.
1-12
Nautical Chart Interpretation
Introduction Figure 1-10 represents a portion of an average chart. This chart contains
a lot of information. When you are in doubt of a specific symbol on a
chart refer to U.S. Coast Guard Chart 1 in booklet form.
Chart 1 lists all standard symbology contained on a chart and is published

in easy to use booklet format. A copy of chart 1 will be available in
every charthouse, if you can’t find one, a copy may be found in Dutton’s
Navigation and Piloting. But a copy of Chart 1 must be ordered!
Now let’s take a closer look at the chart. If you have a copy of a chart
and chart 1, get them to use as references while covering this material.
Use figure 1-10 on the facing pages to identify the many items that may
appear on a chart.
Note: Figure 1-10 does not contain all symbols and features that may
appear on a nautical chart! However, many items that you will work
with on a day-to-day basis are called out for your attention.
1-13
Nautical Chart lnterpretation, Continued
Figure 1-10. Sample of a nautical chart with features called out.
1-14
Nautical Chart Interpretation, Continued
Figure 1-10. Sample of a nautical chart with features called out (continued).
1-15
Chart Scale
Information The scale of a chart refers to a measurement of area, not distance. A

chart covering a relatively large area is called a small-scale chart and a
chart covering a relatively small area is called a large-scale chart. Scales
may vary from 1: 1,200 for plans to 1: 14,000,000 for world charts.
Normally, the major types of charts fall within the following scales:
Chart Type From To Remarks

Harbor and 1:1,000 1:50,000. Used in harbors, anchorage areas,
Approach and the smaller waterways.
Charts used for approaching more
confined waters are called
approach charts.
coast 1:50,000 1:150,000. Used for inshore navigation, for
entering bays and harbors of
considerable width, and for
navigating large inland waterways.
General and 1:150,000 1:6,000,000 Used for coastal navigation
Sailing outside outlying reefs and shoals
when the vessel is generally within
sight of land or aids to navigation
and its course can be directed by
piloting techniques.
Understanding The size of the area portrayed by a chart varies extensively according to
Chart Scales the scale of the chart. The larger the scale, the smaller the area
represented. It follows then that large-scale charts show areas in greater
detail. Many features that appear on a large-scale chart do not, in fact,
show up at all on a small-scale chart of the same area.
The scale to which a chart is drawn usually appears under its title in one
of two ways: 1:25,000 or 1/25,000. These figures mean that an actual
feature is 25,000 times larger than its representation on the chart.
Expressed another way, an inch, foot, yard, or any unit on the chart
means 25,000 inches, feet, or yards on Earth’s surface.
The larger the figure indicating the proportion of the scale, the
smaller the scale of the chart. A chart with a scale of 1:25,000 is on a
much larger scale, for instance, than one whose scale is 1:4,500,000.
1-16
Chart Accuracy
Information Chart accuracy is hard to determine exactly. Several things need to be

taken into consideration. The first and most important factor to consider
is that a chart can be only as accurate as the survey on which it is based.
To judge the accuracy and completeness of the survey, take note of its
source and date. Usually, early survey dates indicate that the chart may
have several irregularities. A chart must be tested before it may be used
with a high degree of confidence. In heavily trafficked waters, a chart is
normally quite accurate due to more thorough survey.
Tip: Another clue with which to determine accuracy is the abundance

or absence of soundings. Infrequent soundings are an excellent indicator
that the survey was not of great detail.
Chart Compromise is sometimes necessary in chart production, as scale,

Production clutter, and other factors may preclude the presentation of all
information collected for a given area. The National Ocean Service
publishes about 1,000 charts covering in excess of 86,000 miles of
shorelines. DMAHTC publishes an even greater amount.
Caution Charts are an aid to navigation and must be used with a certain amount
of caution as they are not a complete guarantee of safety. Every QM
team is responsible to report any changes or errors they may encounter
on the charts they use. In the back of each Notice to Mariners is a form
that may be filled out listing any discrepancies on charts. A radio
message may also be sent to DMAHTC Attn: NTM.
1-17
Latitude and Longitude
Information The latitude and longitude scales presented on the chart are broken down
into whole degrees (fig. 1-11). Each degree is usually broken down into
minutes on small-scale charts (remember, small scale = large area.) The
large-scale chart breaks down even further into minutes (') and seconds
("). It is important that you understand these scales.
Remember that each degree (°) of latitude or longitude equals 60 minutes

(60'), and that each minute (1') equals 60 seconds (60"). Seconds of
latitude and longitude may also be expressed as a decimal fraction.
Figure 1-11. Latitude and longitude scales.
1-18
How to Measure Distance
Background On Earth’s surface, 1° of latitude may be considered 60 nautical miles in

Information length; whereas, the length of 1° of longitude varies with latitude.
Therefore, the latitude scale must be used for measuring distance.
Although this scale is expanded on a Mercator chart, the expansion is
exactly equal to the expansion of distance at the same latitude.
Therefore, in measuring distance on a Mercator chart, one must be
careful to use the latitude and longitude scale in the area one is
measuring. NEVER use the longitude scale.
How to Measure Use the table and figure 1-12 to learn how to measure distance on a
Distance nautical chart.
Step Action
Place one point of the dividers at the beginning of the area
1.
to be measured.
2. Open the dividers to the desired distance to be measured.
Move the dividers over to the closest latitude scale; do not
3.
open or close the dividers!
Place one point of the dividers on a whole degree of
4.
latitude.
5. Place the other point on the latitude scale.
Determine the distance between the two points. (In figure
6.
1-12, the measurement indicates 10 nmi.)
Figure 1-12. How to measure distance on a chart.
1-19
How to Determine or Plot Direction on a Chart
Background Remember, meridians on a Mercator chart appear as straight lines,

Information parallel to and equidistant from one another. You know they represent
imaginary curved lines, not parallel to one another at all, but converging
at the poles. Appearance of meridians on a Mercator projection as
parallel straight lines is one of the most valuable features of this type of
projection, making it possible to plot a course as a straight line (a rhumb
line). On a Mercator projection, a rhumb line cuts every meridian at the
same angle. In other words, it is a line of the same bearing throughout.
Although it does not represent the shortest distance between the points it
connects, this fact is not important unless very large distances are
involved. Use the table and figure 1-13 to determine or plot direction.
Step Action
Identify the two points that you want to determine the direction to or
1. from. Example: Pt A and Pt B.
2. Lay one edge of the parallel rulers so that it passes through each
point.
Firmly press down on one side of the parallel rulers and begin to
3. move the ruler to the compass rose.
Position the ruler so either edge passes through the center crosshair
4. of the compass rose.
5. Use a pencil to mark the outside ring of the compass rose
6. Read the bearing on the outside ring of the compass rose.
Figure 1-13. Plotting a position on a chart.
l-20
How to Plot a Position
How to Plot a Now that we understand the latitude and longitude scales, we can learn
Position how to plot a position. We can quickly and accurately plot any known
position. Figure 1-14 will help illustrate this process. For example, a
ship’s position at 1800 (Lat. 36° 11'N, Long. 70° 17.5'W) can be plotted
as follows:
Step Action
1. Find the latitude, 36° 11'N, on the latitude scale.
2. Place the point of the compass on 36° and measure up
11'; now mark the scale with the compass lead.
3. Without opening or closing the compass, move the point
of the compass over to the proper meridian. In this case it
is 70°. Now mark the meridian with the latitude
measurement.
4. Next we will find our longitude 70° and measure 17.5'.
Care must be taken to measure towards the west or left,
towards the next higher longitude. Now we will use our
lead to mark off 17.5'.
5. Now move the compass point up to the 36° parallel and
mark off 17.5'. Continue to move up the 70th meridian to
the point where you marked off the latitude (36°11'N) and
mark off your longitude. You will now mark off the
longitude once again, this time making a small arc.
6. Now place the point of the compass on the 36° parallel at
the point where the 70° 17.5' W is marked. Now mark a
small arc that will cross the longitude mark. That’s it, the
point where the two arcs intersect is the position.
How to Extract Latitude and Longitude from a Known Position
Figure 1-14. How to plot a position.

1-21
How to Extract Latitude and Longitude from a Known Position
You have now learned how to plot a position. Now let’s extract the
latitude and longitude from a known position. Let’s find the position of
the fix labeled 1520 in figure 1-15 . This is easily accomplished by
following these steps:
1. Place the point of the compass directly beneath the position to be

extracted on the closest parallel. Now open the compass and swing an
arc that passes through the position.
2. Move your compass over to the latitude and read the latitude from
the scale. Now repeat the procedure using the closest meridian as a
reference.
You have now learned how to plot and extract positions on the chart.
Hopefully, the previous discussion on the terrestrial coordinate system is
now clear. If not, now is a good time to review the material once again.
Let’s continue to take a closer look at our chart, where it comes from,
how it is kept up to date.
Figure 1-15. That’s it, the point where the two arcs intersect is the position.
1-22
Defense Mapping Agency
Background Charts used in the Navy may be prepared by the Defense Mapping
Information Agency Hydrographic/Topographic Center (DMAHTC), the National
Ocean Service (NOS), the British Admiralty, or by other hydrographic
agencies. Whatever the source, all charts used by the Navy are issued
by DMAHTC. In this last portion of the chapter you will learn how
determine chart coverage and select charts for any area in the world.
How charts are numbered and the portfolio designations. The system
used to correct charts and techniques used to make corrections. We will
also discuss the chart ordering system.
DMA Pub 1-N The Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) Catalog of Maps, Charts, and
Related Products is a four-part catalog published by the Defense
Mapping Agency Office of Distribution Services (DMAODS). It
provides a comprehensive reference of all DMA maps, charts, and
related products available. It is organized as follows:
PART I-AEROSPACE PRODUCTS
PART 2-HYDROGRAPHIC PRODUCTS
Volume I United States and Canada (Region 1)

Volume II Central and South America and Antarctica (Region 2)
Volume III Western Europe, Iceland, Greenland, and the Arctic
(Region 3)
Volume IV Scandinavia, Baltic, and USSR (Region 4)
Volume V Western Africa and the Mediterranean (Region 5)
Volume VI Indian Ocean (Region 6)
Volume VII Australia, Indonesia, and New Zealand (Region 7)
Volume VIII Oceania (Region 8)
Volume IX East Asia (Region 9)
Volume X Miscellaneous Charts and Publications
Volume XI (SECRET) Classified Charts and Publications (U)
Semiannual Bulletin Digest for Hydrographic Products
Monthly Bulletin for Hydrographic Products
(CONFIDENTIAL) Quarterly Bulletin for Classified Hydrographic
Products (U)
PART 3-TOPOGRAPHIC PRODUCTS
PART 4-TARGET MATERIAL PRODUCTS
1-23
Defense Mapping Agency , Continued
Catalog As you have seen from the organization of the DMA catalog, part 2
deals with hydrographic products. This is the only part that you will
normally use as a Quartermaster. Each of the 11 volumes in part 2
contains graphic indexes and numerical listings of charts and other
products.
The listings also include chart edition numbers and dates. Navigational
and oceanographic publications are contained in volumes X and XI. The
title and date of each publication are shown. The price is noted for each
chart and publication available for sale to the public. The ordering
procedures are contained in volumes X and XI.
Hydrographic The Semiannual Bulletin Digest for Hydrographic Products is published

Bulletins in June and December. It provides a complete listing of all available
unclassified charts and publications. The Monthly Bulletin for
Hydrographic Products is issued the other 10 months between issues of
the Semiannual Bulletin Digest. New and revised charts and
publications issued are reported on a month-to-month basis in the
Monthly Bulletin. The old edition for a chart must not be disposed of
until the latest edition arrives on board.
All information reported in the Monthly Bulletin is cumulative. This

means that only the latest Semiannual Bulletin Digest and Monthly
Bulletin need to be held for you to have current information on all
available hydrographic products. Information appearing for the first
time is marked with an asterisk. The Quarterly Bulletin for Classified
Hydrographic Products is published in January, July, and October, with
volume XI being reissued in April. The Quarterly Bulletin provides a
complete summary of all available classified charts and publications.
The bulletins should be filed and used to correct your catalog volumes.
They will also allow you to check and confirm that you hold the latest
editions of charts and publications in your inventory and that you are not
missing any charts from your required allowance. The charts listed as
canceled are to be disposed of.
1-24
DMA Stock Numbering System
Background A five-digit alphanumeric series designator prefix has been assigned to

Information each standard nautical chart number (fig. 1-16). The purpose of this
prefix is to speed up requisition processing and to improve inventory
management by the DMA. It is listed in the lower left-hand comer of
many charts, along with the chart edition number and date.
As illustrated in figure l-16 the first two digits of the prefix reflect the
geographical subregion in the same manner as the first two digits of the
basic chart number. The third position is the portfolio assignment, A or
B. X is used if the chart is not included in a portfolio. The fourth and
fifth positions are alphabetical designators for the type of chart.
Figure 1-16. DMA stock numbering.
l-25
The Nautical Chart Numbering System
Background DMA assigns a number to every nautical chart used by the U.S. Navy,
Information regardless of the organization producing the chart. Charts produced by
the NOS, and charts of foreign governments are also assigned numbers
by DMA so that they may be filed in sequence with the
DMAHTC-produced charts. DMA charts have numbers consisting of

one to five digits. The number of digits generally indicates the scale
range, and the number itself indicates the geographical area covered by
the chart. The chart numbering system is as follows:
Number of Digits Scale Description

1 (1-9) None Symbol and flag charts.
2 (10-99) 1:9,000,000 These charts depict a major
and smaller portion of an ocean basin or a
large area, with the first digit
identifying the ocean basin.
3 (100-999) Between These are general charts whose
1:2,000,000 numbers are based on the nine
and ocean basins.
1:9,000,000.
4 (5000-9999) Various This category includes great circle
tracking charts, electronic
navigation system plotting charts,
and special-purpose non-
navigational charts and diagrams.
Four-digit charts with a letter
prefix (EOIOI-E8614) are bottom
contour charts.
1-26
The Nautical Chart Numbering System, Continued
Number of Digits Scale Description

5 (11000-99999) Larger than In this category are all standard
1:2,000,000 nautical charts at a scale larger
than 1:2,000,000. At scales such
as this, the charts cover portions
of the coastline rather than
significant portions of ocean
basins.
6 This category consists of combat
(800000-809999) charts and combat training charts.
A random numbering system is
used to prevent the identification
of the geographical area covered
by a classified combat chart
without referring to the catalog.
One reason for this is to allow you
to order classified combat charts
with an unclassified requisition.
Note The five-digit category contains all the large-scale and medium-scale
charts of the world. These are the primary nautical charts. The
five-digit charts are based on the nine regions of the world, as shown in
figure 1-15. The first of the five digits indicates the region in which the
chart is depicted. The first and second digits together indicate the
geographic subregion within the region, and the last three digits identify
the geographic order of the chart within the subregion.
1-27
Chart Correction System
Background The Chart/Publication Correction Record Card System is used to

Information conserve nautical charts and publications and to reduce the amount of
chart correction work aboard ship. The Notice to Mariners, Local
Notice to Mariners, Summary of Corrections, NAVTEX and SafetyNet
are considered component parts of the system.
The Chart/Publication Correction Record Card, shown in figure 1-17, is

designed for use in recording all Notice to Mariners corrections affecting
charts and publications held on board. Initially, the cards are furnished
to Navy ships. Additional cards may be ordered from DMAODS. With
this record, only the charts and publications of the operating area need
be corrected (ready charts).
Charts and publications not immediately required for use may be

updated as areas of operations change or as directed by the commanding
officer. A record must be maintained for Notice to Mariners corrections
to all charts and publications carried aboard, with actual corrections
being made on all charts and publications before they are used for
navigational purposes. Never use an uncorrected chart for navigation
purposes.
Figure 1-17. Example of a completed Chart/Publication Correction

Record Card.
1-28
Notice to Mariners
Background The chart and publication correction system is based on the periodical,
Information Notice to Mariners, published weekly by the DMAHTC and the Local
Notice to Mariners also published by the U.S Coast Guard weekly to
inform mariners of corrections to nautical charts and publications. This
periodical announces new nautical charts and publications, new editions,
cancellations, and changes to nautical charts and publications. It also
summarizes events of the week as they affect shipping, advises mariners
of special warnings or items of general maritime interest, and includes
selected accounts of unusual phenomena observed at sea. Distribution of
the Notice to Mariners is made weekly to all U.S. Navy and Coast Guard
ships and to most ships of the merchant marine.
The classified Chart and Publication Correction System is based on the

Classified Notice to Mariners, published on an as-needed basis by the
DMAHTC to inform mariners of corrections to classified nautical charts
and publications.
The Notice to Mariners provides information specifically intended for

updating the latest editions of nautical charts and publications issued by
the Defense Mapping Agency, the National Ocean Service, and the U.S.
Coast Guard. When the Notice to Mariners is received, it should be
examined for information of immediate value. The list of new charts and
new editions of charts and publications should also be checked to assure
that the latest editions are on board.
In section I of the Notice to Mariners, chart corrections are listed by

chart number, beginning with the lowest and progressing in sequence
through each chart affected. The chart corrections are followed by
publication corrections, which are also listed in numerical sequence.
Since each correction pertains to a single chart or publication, the action
specified applies to that particular chart or publication only. If the same
correction also applies to other charts and publications, it is listed
separately for each one.
Figure 1-18 illustrates the Notice to Mariners format for presenting

corrective information affecting charts. A correction preceded by a star
indicates that it is based on original U.S. source information. If no
marking precedes the correction, the information was derived from some
other source. The letter T preceding the correction indicates the
information is temporary in nature, and the letter P indicates it is
preliminary. Courses and bearings are given in degrees clockwise from
000° true.
1-29
Notice to Mariners, Continued
Figure 1-18. Notice to Mariners format.
Automated The ANTMS is used by the DMAHTC to process navigational data and
Notice to to produce the Notice to Mariners, the Summary of Corrections, the List
Mariners of Lights, and Sailing Directions. Your ship can query the ANTMS by
System message to obtain the latest navigation information while you are at sea.
(ANTMS)
For example, this could be of great importance if you have not received
the most recent issues of Notice to Mariners and want to check for the
latest corrections to charts you will be using to enter your next port.
Instructions explaining how to gain access to the ANTMS may be
obtained by writing to the DMAHTC, Attention: NVS, and requesting a
copy of the Automated Notice to Mariners Communications Users
Manual.
Local Notice to The Local Notice to Mariners is published weekly by the U.S. Coast
Mariners Guard. It contains information of a local nature. As the U. S. Coast
Guard is responsible for maintaining all U.S. Aids to Navigation, they
report any changes that may have been made. This may include
information such as the movement of buoys and markers, and changes in
depth of the water due to dredging. It will also contain information on
bridge closings, harbor restrictions, and general information concerning
harbors and local coastal areas.
l-30
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
Background Whenever a ship is under way, it is necessary to receive information

Information concerning any hazards in the area that the ship may be operating.
Broadcast warnings fulfill this requirement. In recent years a system has
been established that notifies mariners by radio messages. All messages
are broken down into two categories. The first category is called
Hydros. Hydrolants cover warnings in the Atlantic Ocean, Hydropacs
cover the Pacific Ocean. The second category is called Navareas, which
covers specific areas. Navareas contain information that advises
mariners of operating area warnings. An example would be a navigation
aid adrift. Refer to section III of the NTM for more information.
Broadcast warning message boards must be updated from the weekly
NTM.
NAVTEX To meet changing requirements and to provide better service using the
latest technology, DMAHTC has worked with the Navy to provide
up-to-date warning information. Thus the NAVTEX part of
NAVINFONET (fig. 1-19) system has evolved and is currently going into
place on all fleet units.
Figure 1-19. Components of GMDSS (from Pub 117).
NAXTEX will completely replace the Hydros and Navareas warnings

sometime in the future. Refer to the NAVTEX receiver instruction
manual for complete information.
1-31
Summary of Corrections
Background The Summary of Corrections (fig. l-20) is a six-volume cumulative

Information summary of corrections to charts and publications previously published
in the Notice to Mariners. The summary is used when you are
correcting any chart that has not been previously corrected. For
example, a chart lists twelve corrections. The summary contains all
corrections through 6/93. Of the twelve corrections, ten are contained in
the summary, the other two must be obtained from the applicable NTM.
This saves time because instead of pulling twelve NTM, you only pull
two.
Volumes DMAHTC publishes each of the five unclassified volumes semiannually

Published and the classified volume annually. They are organized as follows:
Volume I -East Coast of North and South America

Volume 11 -Eastern Atlantic and Arctic Oceans including the
Mediterrean Sea
Volume Ill-West Coast of North and South America including
Antarctica
Volume IV-Western Pacific and Indian Ocean
Volume V -World and Ocean Basin Charts, U.S. Coast Guard
Pilots, Sailing Directions, Fleet Guides, and other Publications
Figure 1-20. Summary of Corrections.
1-32
Chart Card Maintenance
Background Before we can learn how to correct the charts we want to use, we need
Information to learn the chart card system. The chart card system evolved from a
need to have a standard method of recording NTM corrections. It
wouldn’t be practical to correct each and every chart listed in the weekly
NTM. The chart card systems allows the Quartermaster to record on a
card the NTM year and number for each chart in the ship’s allowance as
changes are made to these charts. Then the chart may be corrected as it
is needed.
Illustrated in figure 1-21 are the steps to be followed to maintain the

card system. These steps are generic, individual units may need to
modify them to suit their needs. The following is a brief description of
the steps:
Step Action
1. The weekly Notice to Mariners is received on board.
2. The ready charts and any charts currently in use are checked
against the NTM to see if any need correction.
Example: write the NTM number (4/93) on the card, and put
the card(s) aside in a pile for later chart correction listed in step
five
3. Charge all affected cards. To charge cards means to enter on
the card the NTM number and year. See figure 1-18. This
must be done for publications also and in the same manner.
4. Update the broadcast message boards as needed from section
III of the NTM.
5. Correct ready charts and any affected charts that may be in use
as identified in step 2.
6. Correct any publications as listed in section II.
7. Pull (remove) all canceled charts and cards and destroy.
8. Make cards for new charts.
1-33
Chart Card Maintenance, Continued
Figure 1-21. Charging the card deck.
Note: When a new edition is listed in the NTM, the card must be annotated as
follows: NTM 6/93 N.E. This indicates that a new edition is ready for
issue. DO NOT DISCARD the old edition until the new one arrives.
1-34
Chart Correction Techniques
Background After a little practice on obsolete charts, corrections to printed

Information information on nautical charts can be made neatly and quickly. These
corrections become a permanent part of the chart and may involve the
safety of the ship. Corrections must be made in ink so they will not be
accidentally erased when you are cleaning the chart after use. The only
instruments necessary to correct charts are several high-quality ball-point
pens or central feed technical fountain pens, a variety of stick or
pencil-type erasers, and typographical correction fluid.
Correction Example: The NTM states that you are to add a buoy at 25°10'33"N
Techniques 70°21'12"W. Locate the coordinates on the chart, determine if you need
to erase part of the chart to insert the buoy. If necessary erase or use
typing correction fluid (white out). NOTE: Any information that is
removed from a chart must be redrawn after the correction is made.
This calls for the person effecting the correction to use some degree of
judgment.
Use the chart correction template (fig. 1-22, available from DMAHTC)
to draw the buoy on the chart. Write in any information about the buoy.
Chart correction may be completed in many ways. It is wise to
purchase additional templates from local sources that carry drafting
supplies. As a rule, corrections must always be neat and legible. Never
use red ink to make corrections to a chart. The Navy uses red lighting
at night. Red ink will disappear under red lights, making the correction
invisible and putting the ship at risk. DO NOT USE RED INK!
l-35
Chart Correction Techniques, Continued
Figure 1-22. Chart correction template.
Correction Time Saver: When correcting charts that have accumulated numerous
Techniques corrections, it is more practical to make the latest correction first and
work backwards since later corrections may cancel or alter earlier
corrections. Remember to use the Summary of Corrections.
Chartlet Chartlet corrections (pasters) appearing in the back of section I of the

Correction Notice to Mariners are to be affixed to the chart in the proper area.
They must be glued in place. Any outstanding temporary changes must
be transferred to the chartlet. Temporary changes in Aids to Navigation
are not plotted by the DMA. It may be necessary to pen in lengthy
notes on a chart. It is desirable to photocopy the note from the NTM
and paste it on the chart whenever possible.
1-36
Chart Ordering System
Background When a ship is first commissioned, it is outfitted by DMAODS with its

Information initial allowance of charts and publications. During normal operations,
some charts will wear out and requirements for additional copies of
high-use charts will be established. New and revised charts and
publications are received by your ship through the Automatic Initial
Distribution (AID) System, which will be discussed later in this chapter.
The DMAODS issues all DMA maps, charts, and publications. A major
unit of the DMAODS is its DMA Distribution Control Point (DDCP) in
Washington, DC. Submit all requisitions to DDCP. Improper
planning on your part does not constitute a crisis for local offices of
DMA. When you use a chart, always order a new chart in a timely
manner.
DMA Branch The DMA offices and branch offices stock limited quantities of products
Offices to meet immediate operational needs. You may obtain products from
them if time does not permit you to submit a requisition to the DDCP.
When you visit a DMA office or branch office, be sure that you carry a
completed requisition form with you. This form must be signed by the
commanding officer.
Chart The basic load of maps, charts, and publications your ship is required to
Allowances hold is prescribed in allowance instructions issued by your fleet
commander or type commander. In some cases a ship may have a
permanent allowance that is supplemented by another allowance that will
cover the area to which the ship deploys. In such cases your
deployment allowance is normally requested by your type commander
from DMAODS about 3 months before your deployment. You should
become familiar with the allowance instructions that pertain to your
ship.
Automatic AID refers to the automatic issue of predetermined quantities of new or

Initial revised products. AID is the means by which your ship’s allowances of
Distribution charts and publications is kept current with no requisitioning action
(AID) required on your part. Annually the DMAODS forwards to each U.S.
Navy ship on AID a computer listing, called an AID Requirements for
Customer Report (R-05), to allow the command to confirm its allowance
holdings. Upon receipt, an annual inventory must be conducted.
1-37
Ordering, Labelling, and Stowing Charts
Ordering Charts The ordering of charts is now primarily accomplished with the help of a
personal computer (PC). With the growth of computer technology,
DMAHTC has written the GETAMAP program to aid in the ordering of
charts. Complete step by step ordering procedures are contained in
DMAHTC publication 1-N.
Labelling and All charts have labelling requirements. To properly label each chart you
Stowing Charts must first fold it correctly. Start with the chart laying flat with the
printed side facing up. Now fold the left side to the right side, turn the
chart 90° and fold in half again. Refer to figure 1-23, note that the
labelling includes a five-digit chart number, latest edition number and
date, and the latest NTM that the chart is corrected through.
Charts are stowed in numerical order by regions. Care must be taken

not to bend or damage charts when placing them in to the chart drawers.
Several copies of the same chart should be placed inside of one copy.
Figure 1-23. Properly folded chart.

1-38
Chapter 2
Compasses
Introduction The compass is the best known and most widely used of all navigational
instruments. It would be almost impossible to obtain precise
information on headings and directions without the compass.
There are two types of compasses in use. The gyrocompass is the

compass that is used the most aboard ship. The magnetic compass is
used as a backup because it requires no electricity to operate. This
chapter will explain the operation and use of each type of compass and
its related equipment.
Describe the components of the magnetic and gyroscopic compasses.

Identify and correct for compass errors.
Explain the procedure used to determine magnetic compass error.
Record entries in the Magnetic Compass Record Book.
Describe the process of swinging ship, conducting compass
sensibility tests, and filling out the compass deviation card.
Determine gyrocompass error.
Topic Page
The Magnetic Compass 2-2
Earth’s Magnetic Field and Magnetism 2-3
Compass components, types and operation 2-7
Magnetic Compass Error 2-9
The Shipboard Degaussing System 2-12
Magnetic Compass Record Book 2-18
Magnetic Compass Adjustment 2-19
The Gyrocompass 2-20
Tools Used to Determine and Plot Direction 2-22
Gyrocompass Error 2-23
Determine Gyro Error 2-32
2-1
The Magnetic Compass
Introduction Before we proceed to determine the proper compass heading to steer,

we must first learn about the workings of the magnetic compass.
To enable you to understand the principles, we will explore the

properties of magnetism.
Magnetism Magnetism is a phenomenon of nature known only by its effects. It

appears as a physical force between two objects of metal, at least one of
which has been previously magnetized and has become a magnet.
Definition A magnet is a metallic element that has the property for attracting iron
and producing a magnetic field around itself. For the purpose of
illustration, this magnetic field is usually pictured as lines of force.
Figure 2-1. Magnetic lines of force.
Types of There are two types of magnetism: permanent and induced. A metal
Magnetism bar having permanent magnetism will retain its properties when it is
removed from a magnetic field.
A metal bar having induced magnetism, however, will lose its properties
when it is removed from the same field
2-2
Earth’s Magnetic Field
Introduction Earth has magnetic properties and can be thought of as having a

powerful magnet near its center (see fig. 2-2). The lines of force radiate
and may be detected on the surface.
Figure 2-2. Earth's magnetic field.
This internal magnet is not aligned with Earth’s axis. This results in the
magnetic poles being in different locations than Earth’s poles. At
Earth’s surface, lines of force become magnetic meridians having
horizontal and vertical components. These components will be
discussed in the next topic, Variation.
Law of There are certain characteristics of magnetism that are important to

Magnetism remember. Every magnet has two poles: a north pole (blue) and a south
pole (red). Each pole has opposite characteristics and they each follow
the Law of Magnetism:
"OPPOSITES ATTRACT; LIKES REPEL"
A north pole attracts a south pole but it repels another north pole. This
law is of importance to you because it will help you understand the
relationship between the magnetic compass and the magnetic properties
of Earth.
2-3
Variation
Information As stated in the topic on magnetism, Earth has magnetic properties and
can be thought of as having a powerful magnetic bar near its center.
The lines of force appear as illustrated in figure 2-3.
Figure 2-3. Chart No. 42 showing lines of variation.
Facts Earth’s magnetic properties are not uniformly distributed.

Earth’s magnetic poles are not at the same position as the geographic
poles.
Magnetic lines of force are called magnetic meridians.
The variation for any area on

Earth is always equal to the
difference between the value of
true north and magnetic north.
Example:
True north 000°

Mag. north 358° Figure 2-4. Variation equals the
angular difference between true north
Variation = 2° East and magnetic north.
2-4
How to Determine Local Variation
Background While standing the QMOW, you will routinely be tasked with
determining variation. This is a simple procedure using simple
mathematics and the chart’s compass rose. Use the following steps to
find your local variation.
Step Action
1. Locate the compass rose nearest to the area in which the ship is operating.
2. Locate the variation and annual increase/decrease from the center.
3. Locate the year from the center of the compass rose.
4. Subtract the year indicated from the current year.
5. Multiply the number of years times the annual change.
6. Add the sum (or subtract if decreasing) from step No. 5 to the variation in the
center of the compass rose.
7. Round the total off to the closest ½°.
Figure 2-5. Steps followed to determine variation.
2-5
Standard and Steering Compasses
Compasses The Chief of Naval Operations requires that each self-propelled ship and
are service craft of the United States Navy be equipped with one or more
REQUIRED magnetic compasses suitable for navigation.
Except for modern nuclear-powered submarines, all ships and craft,

regardless of size or classification, must have a magnetic steering
compass at the primary steering station.
Steering Many ships carry more than one magnetic compass. The primary
Compass magnetic compass is called the steering compass. It is normally located
on the centerline in the ship’s pilothouse (except aboard aircraft
carriers), where it can best be seen by the helmsman. The readings from
the steering compass are labeled "per steering compass" (PSTGC).
Standard If a ship has two magnetic compasses, the second compass is called the
Compass standard compass. The ship’s standard compass is normally located on
the ship’s centerline at the secondary conning station. The readings from
the standard compass are expressed as "per standard compass" (PSC).
Note The readings from the ship’s gyrocompass are "per gyrocompass"
(PGC). Courses and bearings by these compasses must be carefully
differentiated by the abbreviations.
Cautions A magnetic compass cannot be expected to give reliable service unless it

is properly installed and protected from disturbing magnetic influences.
Certain precautions must be observed in the vicinity of the magnetic
compass.
If possible, a compass should not be placed near iron or steel

equipment that will be moved frequently. Thus, a location near a
gun, boat davit, or boat crane is not desirable.
The immediate vicinity should be kept free of sources of magnetism,

particularly those of a changing nature.
When possible, no source of magnetism should be permitted within a

radius of several feet of the magnetic compass.
2-6
Magnetic Compass Operation and Components
Operation The operation of a magnetic compass is very simple and can be stated as
follows: "A small bar magnet freely suspended in the magnetic field of
Earth will always align itself parallel to the lines of force of that field and
thus will establish a direction."
Components Use the following table, figure 2-6, and figure 2-7 to learn the parts of a
magnetic compass.
Part Function
Card The card is an aluminum disk graduated in degrees
from 0 to 359. It has a jeweled bearing that rides on a
hard, sharp pivot point.
Bowl The card is supported by the bowl. A lubbers line is
marked on the bowl and is used as visible index. The
bowl is filled with Varsol to dampen overswings by the
card. An expansion bellows in the lower bowl serves
to allow expansion of the liquid with temperature
changes.
Magnets Several bar magnets are used to correct and align the
compass.
Gimbals The bowl has two pivots that rest in a metal ring,
which also has two pivots resting in the binnacle. This
arrangement (gimbals) permits the compass to remain
level despite the motion of the ship.
Binnacle The binnacle serves
as a housing for the
compass. It is
made of a non-
magnetic material.
It also serves as a
housing for the
compasses
correctors:
magnets, flinders
bar, and quadrantal
spheres. A lighting Figure 2-6. Compass binnacle
system is normally
installed.
2-7
Magnetic Compass Operation and Components, Continued
Components The following illustrations should help you visualize the working parts
of a basic magnetic compass.
Figure 2-7. Parts of a magnetic compass.

2-8
Magnetic Compass Error
Introduction Before we use a magnetic compass aboard a ship, we must first correct
for the magnetic influences that make the compass deviate from true or
geographic north.
The first influence is variation, which we have already covered. The

second is deviation.
Deviation Deviation may be defined as the amount that the compass is deflected
from the magnetic meridian because of the effects of the ship’s iron.
This is where permanent and induced magnetism come in to play.
Permanent Also known as hard-iron magnetism, permanent magnetism is created in

Magnetism the ship’s structure during the building process. The ship’s structure
gains its own unique magnetic field based on the angle that the keel was
laid.
Induced Also known as soft-iron magnetism, induced magnetism varies according

Magnetism to the intensity of the component of Earth’s field in which it was
induced.
Compass Error The amount of deviation varies as the ship changes course. The ship’s
magnetic effects may be corrected by the proper placement of various
correctors.
The process of correcting for deviation error is called swinging ship.

The navigator and QM gang will swing the ship through 360 degrees,
stopping each 15 degrees and comparing the compass heading against a
properly functioning gyrocompass. The results are recorded on the
magnetic compass deviation table.
Example: While swinging ship and steady on course 015° by gyro, the
magnetic compass reads 016°. It should read 015°; the 1° difference is
the amount of deviation. In this case, it is labeled westerly deviation
1.0° W.
Next The next topic deals with the magnetic compass deviation table. From
there we will look at degaussing, and then you will learn how to
perform compass calculations to correct for variation and deviation.
2-9
Magnetic Compass Deviation Tables
Purpose The purpose of the magnetic compass deviation tables, commonly

refered to as "deviation tables," is to provide a means of knowing the
deviation of the magnetic compass for any heading. This information is
crucial to safe navigation if the gyrocompass fails.
Table The figure on the right is an

Composition example of a deviation table. The
top portion of the table contains the
name of the ship, location of the
compass (pilothouse), binnacle type,
and compass type.
The middle section of the table

contains the ship’s heading and
deviation data.
Example: You want to steer course

090° magnetic. By inspecting the
table for ship’s heading 090°, you’ll
notice that the deviation is equal to
1.0° West with DG OFF (DG is an
abbreviation for degaussing) and
1.5° West with DG ON. To make
good 090°, you would have to
actually steer course 091°.
The bottom portion of the table

contains information on magnet and
flinders bar placement that corrects
for excessive deviations.
Figure 2-8. Magnetic compass

deviation table.
2-10
How to Determine Deviation
Information As you learned in the last topic, the deviation tables contain information
on the deviation for headings. The deviation table must be updated
annually and posted on or near the magnetic compass. Follow the steps
in the step action table to determine the deviation and magnetic course
to steer.
Example: Refer to figure 2-8. Your ship is on course 090° T, the gyro
fails and the OOD now wishes to make good course 117° (magnetic
course) by magnetic compass. Find the proper deviation from the
magnetic compass deviation table and recommend the correct magnetic
course to steer to make 117° good. In this example we will assume that
degaussing is turned OFF.
DETERMINING YOUR DEVIATION

Step Action Example/Result
1. Determine if degaussing is ON or OFF
OFF
If Then
OFF Use left column
ON Use right column
2. In the deviation table, locate the The nearest course is 120
course nearest your desired
course.
3. Read the deviation Deviation equals 3.0 W
4. Apply the deviation correction to RULE: Westerly deviation
the ordered course means that the compass reads
less than it should. You must
add W deviation to the magnetic
course.
Easterly deviation is opposite,
you must subtract the deviation
from the magnetic course to get
your course to steer or “compass
course.”
Magnetic Course 117°
Deviation + 3° W
Compass Course 120°
Because of the compass
deviation you must steer
compass course 120° to make
magnetic course 117° good.
2-11
The Shipboard Degaussing System
Purpose When a ship is close to a magnetic mine or magnetic torpedo, the

magnetic field of the ship actuates the firing mechanism and causes the
mine or torpedo to explode. Degaussing is an electrical installation
designed to protect ships against magnetic mines and torpedoes. The
purpose of degaussing is to counteract the ship’s magnetic field and
establish a condition such that the magnetic field near the ship is, as
nearly as possible, just the same as if the ship were not there.
Components Shipboard degaussing installation consists of permanently installed

degaussing coils, a control unit to control the coil current, and compass
compensating equipment to prevent disturbances to the magnetic
compasses by the magnetic field of the degaussing coils. Figure 2-9
illustrates the types of coils that are found on a typical degaussing
installation.
Figure 2-9. Typical degaussing coil layout.
2-12
The Shipboard Degaussing System, Continued
Degaussing Coils The degaussing coil is actually a large diameter electrical wire. As you
might have guessed, when it is energized it produces an electromagnetic
field.
The following table gives a description of each coil and its effect on the
ship’s magnetic field.
Coil Description
A The A, or athwartship, coil is made up of loops in
vertical fore-and-aft planes. The function of the A
coil is to produce a magnetic field that will counteract
the ship’s athwartship permanent and induced
magnetism.
F The F, or forecastle, coil encircles the up to the
forward l/3 of the ship. It is usually located just
below the forecastle or uppermost deck. The function
of the F coil is to produce a magnetic field that will
counteract the ship’s longitudinal permanent and
induced magnetism.
L The L, or longitudinal coil is made up of loops in
vertical planes parallel to the ship’s frames. The
function of the L coil is to produce a magnetic field
that will counteract the ship’s longitudinal permanent
and induced magnetism.
Q The Q, or quarterdeck, coil encirles the after l/3 of a
ship. It serves the same purpose as the F coil.
M The M, or main, coil encircles the ship in a horizontal
plane, usually just below the waterline. The function
of the M coil is to produce a magnetic field that will
counteract the ship’s vertical permanent and induced
magnetism.
Degaussing and The deviation to the magnetic compass resulting from these currents is
the Magnetic neutralized as much as possible by a procedure called compensation.
Compass The remaining deviations caused by the degaussing coils are observed
and plotted on the left side of the deviation table.
2-13
Compass Error Calculations
Background In navigational work, you have to develop the ability to quickly and
accurately convert directions between true, magnetic, and compass
(headings, courses, and bearings).
A heading or course is the same as an angle. It is the angle that the

centerline of the ship or boat, or a line marked on a chart makes with
some other reference line.
Reference Three lines of reference have been established: the direction of true
north, or the true meridian; the direction of magnetic meridian; and the
direction of the north point of the compass. Ship’s heading is the same.
How you describe it depends on the reference point used.
There are three ways to

name a course or
heading:
True heading
Magnetic heading
Compass heading
Comment Whether you are determining courses the helmsman is to steer, obtaining
bearings to be plotted on a chart, laying track lines on the chart, or
recording courses in the Magnetic Compass Record Book, knowing how
to apply variation and deviation comes into play. The big question is
"how do we convert one to the other?" Practice is needed to perform
this task. However, keep in mind that you first need to reason each
step, until later when the process becomes habit.
2-14
Memory-Aids
Information There are several sets of "memory-aids" available to assist you in

performing compass calculations. The following simple phrases are
designed to assist you in remembering how to convert from one heading
expression to another and how to name errors.
Meanings The first set of aids were designed to help you remember the
arrangement of the first letters of each word in the phrase. These are
arranged representing the three ways of naming a direction (compass,
magnetic, true) with the respective differences (deviation and variation)
properly placed between them: (CDMVT) compass, deviation,
magnetic, variation, true. The first letters in the words at elections stand
for add east (subtract west), when converting the direction from compass
to true. When converting in the opposite direction, the letters are
reversed (TVMDC) and the memory aid "timely vessels make distance
count at war" informs us to add west (subtract east) error when
converting from true to compass.
The second set of memory aids deal with comparison of two compass
headings to determine whether to call the difference east or west. If the
comparison is between magnetic and compass, and compass is a greater
number (best), the difference is west. The same comparison can be
made between true and magnetic. In this case, magnetic is considered
the same as compass.
Correcting: converting from compass course to a true course

Uncorrecting: converting from a true course to a compass course
2-15
How to Perform Compass Calculations
Preforming The following table will allow you to visualize the steps necessary to
Calculations perform compass calculations. The table is followed by several
example exercises that should be completed before you move on to
additional material.
Step Action
Write down the first letters from the
1.
phrase "Can Dead Men Vote Twice."
Ordered course is 180°T; you want to
find the compass course to steer. You
2.
already know what T is, so write it
down.
Let’s say that the corrected variation
3. from the center of the compass rose is
11°E.
When uncorrecting, remember that
you add westerly errors and subtract
4. easterly errors. The variation is
easterly, so subtract it from the true
heading to find the magnetic heading.
Next, from the deviation table, figure
2-8, find the value closest to 169°,
5.
interpolating as necessary; write it
down.
Remember, when uncorrecting you
6.
add westerly errors. 15 + 169 = 184.
Closing Now you can see that to head 180° true, you must steer 184° by this
particular magnetic compass. In this example, we were uncorrecting
(changing from true to compass). We could have used the same method
to change from compass to true; but we must remember that when
correcting, we add easterly and subtract westerly errors. With an
understanding of these rules, we can now go on to applying the lessons
learned to a functional part of a Quartermaster’s job—recording entries
in the Magnetic Compass Record Book. But first, complete the training
examples on the next page.
2-16
Exercises
Instructions Now that you have been shown how to perform calculations using the
magnetic compass and its error, you need to practice these skills. The
following problems give you one or more values; you are to fill in the
blanks with the correct answer. Take your time and refer back to
previous material to complete each exercise.
Exercise 1 Find the missing values.
C D M V T
022 4E 026 6W
C D M V T
090 1.5W 3E
C D M V T
210 1.5E 220
C D M V T
328 325 332
Exercise 2 Using the memory-aids "Compass Best, Error West" and "Compass Least,
Error East," fill in the missing values.
Compass Course Actual Compass Reading Error

180 182 2W
225 229
196 193
True Course Actual Gyro Reading Error

339 337
196 194.5
2-17
Practical Application
Compass Whenever a ship is under way it is necessary to compare the ship’s

Comparison compasses to make sure that they are operating properly. This is
accomplished by using the compass calculations and checking the
compasses against the true course.
Example The following table represents an excerpt from the Magnetic Compass
Record Book.
Date Time Latitude Longitude Gyro Compasses True

Heading
---- Gyro ------Gyro
Gyro Error Gyro Error
Reading Reading
10Mar94 1000 36°24 W 74°12 W 120 1.0E 121
1012 36 04 W 074 14 W 270 1.0E 271
1025 36 05 W 074 18 W 297 1.0E
In this example the date, time, latitude, and longitude of the observation
are noted. The master gyro is reading 120; the error determined by the
morning azimuth is 1.0 E. Remember, if the compass is least the error
is east; you would add the error to obtain the true heading. Knowing
our true heading, we can now apply our variation and compare the
magnetic compasses.
Magnetic DG
Variation Magnetic Compasses
Heading ON/OFF REMARKS
Standard Steering
Compass Compass
Dev Dev
Reading Reading
14 W 135 136 1W 134 1E OFF
14 W 285 OFF Energized
289 4W 283 2E
degaussing at 1022
14.5W 313 311 ON
As you can see, this is the practical application of your newly acquired
compass calculation skills. Practice by filling in the blanks for the 1025
entry. When under way, the compasses must be compared every
one-half hour and at each course change.
Note: There is an exception; if a ship is in a formation and changing

course frequently, or the ship is alongside another ship, each course
change does not need to be recorded. Use the following statement in the
Remarks column: "Steering various courses while alongside (in
formation)." A comparison must still be made every one-half hour!
2-18
Magnetic Compass Adjustment
Background The magnetic compass must be adjusted at least once a year. The process
of adjustment is called "swinging ship." This is required as a safety
precaution; also as the ship steams, its magnetic properties will change.
The process of swinging ship is too detailed and complicated to be

completely taught within this training manual. As the magnetic compass
is considered a piece of equipment, it is covered by the Planned
Maintenance System (PMS). Training on compass adjustment is normally
done by OJT.
Basics The following table lists the basic steps to be followed to adjust a
magnetic compass. It cannot be used solely as a guide for compass
adjustment.
Rule: When performing actual adjustment, you must use the PMS card
and publication 226.
Step Action
1. Meet with the navigator to schedule PMS.
2. Twenty-four hours prior, inform QM gang of intentions.

3. Four hours prior review MRC; gather all tools.
4. Four hours prior, calculate the true courses to steer.
5. Man all stations and begin swinging ship.
6. Fill out a new magnetic compass deviation table.
7. Have the new table signed by the commanding officer.
Closing The process of swinging ship is often tedious and very time consuming.
In most cases a minimum of 4 hours should be set aside for this task. It
is not advisable to attempt to adjust a compass in moderate to heavy
weather. Doing so will often render the results inaccurate.
ANSWERS EX 1; 020; 088.5, 091.5; 211.5, 8.5 E; 3.0 W, 7.0 E.

EX 2; 4.0 W, 3.0 E, 2.0 E, 1.5 E.
2-19
The Gyrocompass
Introduction The gyrocompass was developed as the answer to the need for an
instrument that would indicate TRUE NORTH rather than MAGNETIC
NORTH. The gyrocompass is now the main source for determining
direction.
Operation The basis for the gyrocompass is the

gyroscope. A rapidly spinning body
having three axes of angular freedom
constitutes a gyroscope. This may be
illustrated by the heavy wheel rotating at
high speed in supporting rings or
gimbals.
The gyrocompass must be lit off a

minimum of 4 hours prior to use. This
allows the gyro to warm up and settle.
It is desirable to lite off the
gyrocompass 24 hours prior to the
scheduled underway time.
Figure 2-11. Gyroscope.
Components The gyrocompass is powered by electricity and consists of two main

components. They are the master gyro and repeaters. The master
gyrocompass consists of a control cabinet, power supply, speed unit,
alarm unit, and transmission units. It is normally located within the
ship’s hull where it is least affected by pitch, roll, yaw, and battle
damage. The IC electricians are responsible for its upkeep.
Accuracy A properly functioning gyrocompass will often have a mechanical error

of 2° or less. The gyrocompass must be checked for error at least once
daily while the ship is under way.
2-20
Repeaters
Purpose Repeaters are designed to receive the signal transmitted from the master
gyro. This allows the ship’s control stations to receive real-time gyro
data. The chief advantage of repeaters is that they may be set up nearly
vertical for use by the helmsman. Repeaters may also be placed flat for
taking bearings of navaids or ships with alidades and bearing circles.
Figure 2-12 illustrates a

standard repeater. The
card is laid out with
relative bearings on the
outside circle and true
bearings on the inside
circle. In upcoming topics
you will learn how to use
related tools to measure
angles (bearings) using
repeaters.
Figure 2-12. Standard gyro repeater.
Locations Repeaters are normally found at all the ship’s control stations, these
areas include but are not limited to the following spaces:
The pilothouse and bridgewings

Aftersteering
Secondary conn
Additional repeaters are normally placed in the following spaces:
Commanding officer’s stateroom

CIC
Navigator’s stateroom
Accuracy The QMOW must check the repeaters occasionally against the master
gyro to determine errors.
2-21
Tools Used to Measure Direction
Introduction The QM uses several pieces of navigational equipment to determine

direction. Remember that direction may be labeled in many ways, such
as course, azimuth angle, bearing... . The following table contains
information about tools and their uses.
Tool Most often used...

to obtain the bearings of other ships to
determine relative motion
Bearing Circle also to find the bearing of

any object.
to obtain an azimuth of the Sun for checking

gyrocompass error
Azimuth Circle also as a bearing circle.
to obtain bearings of aids to navigation to

determine the ship’s position
Telescopic Alidade 1
also to obtain data for amplitudes for
checking gyrocompass error.
to determine and plot bearings and courses on

charts
Parallel Motion
Protractor (PMP)
1
Obtaining an amplitude is a method of checking the error of the gyrocompass. An
amplitude is normally taken of the Sun rising or falling, but it may be used for any celestial
body.
2-22
Gyrocompass Error
Introduction The gyrocompass is normally the main reference for direction for the
surface navigator. When properly used, serviced, and maintained, the
modern gyrocompass is extremely accurate. However, as is the case
with all electronic instruments, it is subject to error and damage.
One power failure or other casualty can render the entire system useless.
All naval ships are equipped with gyro failure alarms. The alarms sound
when a loss of power is experienced. It is during this time that the
magnetic compass comes into play. As you learned earlier, the magnetic
compass does not require electricity to operate. It’s always ready for
use by the navigator.
Errors Most normally functioning gyrocompasses will not have an error of

more than 2.0° . More often than not, the error is between 0.0° and
0.5°.
Rule: When at sea, the Quartermaster must determine the gyrocompass

error at least once a day. However, the prudent navigator will take
advantage of every opportunity to check the accuracy of a gyro.
There are many methods of checking the accuracy of a gyrocompass.

The following methods are commonly used on U.S. Navy ships:
Terrestrial range
Trial and error (Franklin technique)
Azimuth of the Sun
Amplitude of the Sun
The first two methods are used only when a ship is near land. They use
aids to navigation and geographic locations shown on a chart for
reference. The last two methods are used when the ship is at sea, and
they use the Sun as a reference.
Next Before we learn these methods, we have to learn how to use the bearing
circle, alidade, and PMP. They play a large part in the first two
methods. The last two methods use celestial navigation methods to
determine error and will be discussed in length in the Celestial
Navigation chapter.
2-23
Bearing Circle and Azimuth Circle
Figure 2-13. Parts of a bearing circle. Figure 2-14. Parts of an azimuth

circle.
Components Figure 2-13 is a diagram of a
bearing circle and figure 2-14 is a diagram of an azimuth circle. The
table below lists the major parts and functions of each of these circles.
Part Bearing Azimuth Function

Circle Circle
Ring Yes Yes Fits upon a 7 ½ inch gyro repeater.
Sight Vanes Allow the observer to take bearings of objects by
aligning the two vanes to the object. The near vane
contains a peep sight while the far vane contains a
Yes Yes vertical wire. The far vane is mounted on top of a
housing that contains a reflective mirror inside
enabling the observer to read the bearing from the
reflected portion of the compass card.
Reflector Vanes Allow the observer to observe azimuths of celestial
bodies (stars and planets) at various altitudes by
Yes Yes picking up their reflection in the black mirror.
When the body is observed, its reflection appears
behind the vertical wire in the far vane.
Levels Indicate if the ring is level with the horizon.
Yes Yes NOTE: Bearings read when the ring is not level
are inaccurate.
Concave Mirror Reflects the Sun’s rays onto the prism housing on
NO Yes the other side of the ring when the observer is
taking an azimuth of the Sun.
Prism Housing Directs the beam of light from the concave mirror
NO Yes downward in a narrow beam onto the compass card
enabling the observer to read the azimuth to the
Sun.
2-24
How to Use a Bearing Circle
Follow the steps in the table to properly obtain a bearing.
Step Action
Place the ring on top of the repeater, then gently
1. twist the handles to lock in place.
Orient the bearing circle with the peep sight

nearest to you and the far vane closest to the
2.
object to be sighted.
Look through the peep sight and view the object

3. inside the far vane.
Rotate the bearing circle left or right to align the

vertical wire in the far vane with the center of the
4.
object.
Keep the bearing circle level by observing the

5. spirit level.
When the object is in line with the peep sight and

wire, observe the bearing reflected from the mirror
6.
in the housing from the compass card.
Determine which compass mark is aligned with

the crosshair seen in the mirror, and read the
7.
bearing.
Note Information concerning how to use the azimuth circle will be presented
in the Celestial Navigation chapter.
2-25
Parallel Motion Protractor (PMP)
Introduction The PMP is a valuable tool for plotting direction quickly and accurately.
When in restricted waters and plotting fixes every 3 minutes, you will
greatly appreciate this instrument. The PMP is usually anchored to the
top of the chart table.
The PMP is designed to keep the moveable compass rose oriented to the
longitude and latitude of any chart. An arm is attached to the moveable
compass rose which can be rotated to whatever bearing you require and
then moved to the object on the chart that the bearing was taken to, so
an LOP can be drawn.
Part Description of function

Anchor plate Allows the PMP to be attached to the chart table.
Friction control knob Allows adjustment of movement of the arms at the
two linkage points.
Bearing scale A 360° circle marked in 1° increments. When
locked it will maintain its orientation when moved
around the chart table.
Index marks Used to align the ruler on the desired bearing. The
four marks spaced every 90° are inscribed on a
plate that is directly linked to the handle and the
ruler.
Protractor lock switch Locks the bearing scale when aligning the PMP.
Scale lock switch Locks the PMP ruler on a desired bearing.
Figure 2-15. Parts of a PMP.

2-26
How to Set Up the PMP
Note The PMP is normally set up to automatically compensate for

gyrocompass error. The error may be "dialed in"; this allows the LOPs
and course lines to be plotted without correction.
Follow these steps to set up the PMP. See figures 2-16 and 2-17 on the
next page to see what the scale looks like with 0° gyro error and also
with gyro error dialed in.
Step Action
1. Tape the chart you are using onto the chart table by
its comers.
2. Take the PMP out of its storage box.
3. Place the mounting plate inside the anchor plate
and tighten the anchor screw to secure the PMP to
the chart table.
4. Attach the ruler to the PMP by placing the ruler on
the table and sliding it into the attachment arm.
5. Unlock both the protractor and the scale locks.
6. Twist the handle to align the ruler with the latitude
line on the chart.
7. Rotate the bearing scale to the appropriate position.
IF gyro error is... THEN align the scale . . .

Zero To the 0° index mark
Westerly To the index mark on the scale to
the left of zero, equal to the
amount of gyro error
Easterly To the index mark on the scale to
the right of zero, equal to the
amount of gyro error
8. Lock the bearing scale using the protractor lock

switch.
2-27
How to Set Up the PMP, Continued
How to Align Figure 2-16 illustrates how the PMP looks when it is aligned with no
with 0° Error gyro error. The ruler is aligned on any parallel (latitude line) and the
scale lock is released, the moveable compass rose is aligned as shown
and the scale lock is tightened. The PMP is now aligned to true north
and is ready to plot LOPs or courses.
Figure 2-16. PMP dialed in with 0° gyro error.
Aligning the Figure 2-17 illustrates how the PMP looks when aligned with 30° W or
PMP with Gyro 2° E gyro error. The ruler is aligned on any parallel (latitude line) and
Error the scale lock is released, the moveable compass rose is aligned as
shown, and the scale lock is tightened.
Figure 2-17. PMP dialed in with gyro error.
2-28
How to Plot With a PMP
With the PMP properly aligned, its easy to use the tool to plot bearings
or lay out course lines. Use the following steps and figure 2-18 to plot
with a PMP.
Step Action
1. Locate the index mark closest to the ruler.
Rotate the handle, which moves the index mark and ruler,
2.
so the index mark points to the bearing you want to plot.
Maintain the index mark in that position by either locking
3. the scale lock switch or holding the bearing scale and
index mark plate tightly with your thumb and forefinger.
Move the ruler to the charted object that you took a
4.
bearing to.
5. Draw the line of position on the chart.
Figure 2-18. How to plot with a PMP.
2-29
Telescopic Alidade
Parts and The following are the parts and functions of the telescopic alidade
Functions shown in figure 2-19.
Part Description of Function
Ring Fits upon a 7½ inch gyro repeater.

Light filter knob Enables the observer to switch to an internal
light filter, which protects your eye from the
brightness of the Sun.
Polarizing Enables the observer to adjust the light filter
adjustment knob from light to dark, depending on the
brightness of the Sun.
Level Indicates if the ring is level with the
horizon. Bearings read when the circle is
not level are NOT ACCURATE!
Focus knob Enables the observer to adjust the internal
telescope lens so the view is focused.
Figure 2-19. Telescopic alidade.
2-30
How to Use the Telescopic Alidade
View Through The optical system simultaneously projects the image of the compass
the Alidade card, together with a view of the spirit level, onto the optical view of the
telescope. By this means, both the object and its bearing can be viewed
at the same time through the alidade eyepiece.
Figure 2-20 illustrates taking a visual bearing with a telescopic alidade.

In this example, the bearing to the lighthouse is 022°.
Follow these steps to properly take a bearing with a telescopic alidade.
Step Action
1. Place the ring on top of the gyro repeater and twist locks into
2. Point the front lens of the alidade towards the object to be

sighted.
Tip: Sight along the handle to quickly find an object.
3. Look into the eyepiece and rotate the alidade right or left until
the object is aligned with the crosshair.
4. Keep the alidade level by observing the spirit level in the top
part of the view.
5. With the object lined up and level, read the bearing from the
reflected compass card. Read the inside compass card for true
bearings.
Figure 2-20. View through an alidade.
2-31
Determining Gyro Error by Terrestial Range
Background An excellent opportunity to check the accuracy of the gyrocompass

presents itself each time a ship enters or departs port. Most harbors will
have at least one set of range markers set. This method of checking a
gyrocompass is often referred to as obtaining a range of opportunity.
To determine gyro error by terrestial range, you should follow the steps
in the table and refer to figure 2-21.
Step Action
1. View the range markers through the alidade.

The ship maneuvers "on range" (range markers are in
2.
line.)
"Shoot" (take) a bearing on the range markers while
3.
they are lined up.
Compare the bearing taken against the chart.
4.
Figure 2-21. Determining gyro error by

terrestial range.
Tip It is also possible to mark a range as it passes down the port or

starboard side of the ship. The steps in the action table are still basically
the same; the exception is that the ship will not maneuver on range.
The bearing taker must shoot the bearing to the range markers the
instant that they are in line. This method is only as accurate as the
experience and ability of the bearing taker.
2-32
Determining Gyro Error by Trial and Error
Franklin The Franklin technique is extremely useful just prior to getting a ship
Technique under way. The Franklin technique provides an alternative and must be
used if the gyro error cannot be checked by another method prior to
getting under way. To determine gyro error using the Franklin
technique follow the steps in the table and refer to figure 2-22.
Step Action
Select three to five navaids from the chart. For the best results,
the selected navaids should be about 120” apart. (The ship must
1.
be pierside or anchored, large towers and conspicous buildings
may be selected).
Compare the repeater(s) to be used against the master gyro; note
2.
errors.
Take a round of bearings on the selected navaids, and apply any
repeater error to the bearing.
Example: The repeater reads 187° and the master gyro reads
3.
187.5°. The repeater is reading ½° less than (compass least error
east). Since the error is 0.5° east (less than), 0.5 must be added to
all bearings taken from that repeater.
Plot the corrected bearings on the chart with the PMP set for 0°
4.
gyro error.
Observe how the lines intersect, if they meet in a point the gyro is
“ON” and has no error. If the lines do not intersect, subtract or
5. add 1.0° at a time until the triangle closes. The amount of
correction is the total gyro error. Log it in the deck log and
Magnetic Compass Record Book.
Figure 2-22. Determing gyro error by adjusting bearings.
2-33
CHAPTER 3
Navigational Publications
Introduction In this chapter you learn of the various publications that are routinely used
by the Quartermaster. The QM uses many types and forms of written
documents to make possible the full and efficient execution of his or her
duties. The majority of these documents are prepared by various
governmental agencies, although some originate from commercial sources.
The term document here is used in a broad sense to include charts, tables,
books, and pamphlets, and devices that relate to navigation. We learned
about charts in chapter 1 and the Light List in chapter 2. We will now
familiarize you with navigational publications that you as a Quartermaster
will use.
Select the use of and match publications from a list.
Topic Page
Navigational Publication Quick Reference Guide 3-2
Coast Pilots 3-4
Fleet Guides 3-4
Sailing Directions 3-5
List of Lights 3-6
Tide Tables and Tidal Current Tables 3-7
Pilot Charts 3-7
World Port Index 3-8
Distances Between Ports 3-8
Almanacs 3-9
Sight Reduction Tables 3-9
Publication Corrections and Ordering 3-10
3-1
Publications
Introduction Government agencies conduct field surveys and research studies of their
own. They collaborate with each other and with similar activities in many
foreign nations to make sure their charts and other publications will
contain the most recent and accurate information. A very valuable input
to all types of navigational documents results from reports made by
vessel’s crews as to new and changed situations.
This chapter is divided into three areas:
Transit Planning Publications

Almanacs and Sight Reduction Tables
Publication Correction and Ordering
The following table has been provided as a quick reference guide. It

gives a description of many of the publications that Quartermasters use
routinely. Many of these publications will be covered in greater detail in
this chapter or elsewhere in this text.
Navigational Publication Quick Reference Guide
Published by/
Pub Number Pub Name Main Focus Description Available from
Tidal Current Prediction Provide tidal current data, NOS

Tables Tables worldwide coverage
comprising four volumes.
Tide Tables Prediction Provide tidal and NOS
Tables astronomical data,
worldwide coverage
comprising four volumes.
Chart # 1 Aids to A complete listing of all NOAA and
Navigation aids to navigation and chart DMAHTC/
Systems symbology. DMA S/N WOBZC1
Pilot Charts Planning Available in atlas form for NOAA
each ocean basin.
3-2
Publication Quick Reference Guide, Continued
Published by/
PubNumber PubName Main Focus Description Available from
American Technical A comprehensive technical DMAHTC/

Practical Navigation reference covering all aspects DMA S/N NVPUB9Vl
9 Navigator Reference of navigation. Includes two
volumes. NVPUB9V2
International Flag and Light Specific information on DMAHTC/

102 Code of Signals sending signals to non-NATO DMA S/N NVPUB 102
Signals ships.
Radio Radio Signal A reference guide for NavTex, DMAHTC/
117 Navigational Information NavInfoNet, and GPS DMA S/N RAPUB117
Aids Systems operation.
Sailing Planning Contains in-depth information DMAHTC\
Directions Information on ports and seacoasts. Refer to DMA
publication DMA
121 through
Broken down into volumes Catalog of Maps,
200
containing planning guides and Charts, and Related
en route guides. Products, Part 2, Vol
1, Section 10
World Port Port Information Contains specific information DMAHTC/
150 Index on ports around the world in DMA S/N NVPUB150
an easy to use table format.
Sight Celestial Covers 160 of latitude North DMAHTC\
Reduction Interpolation or South; available in six Refer to DMA
Tables Tables volumes for all latitudes. publication DMA
229 Catalog of Maps,
Charts, and Related
Products, Part 2, Vol
1, Section 10
List of Lights Lights, Radio Provides specific information DMAHTC\
Aids, Fog on lights and light structure for Refer to DMA
Signals all areas not covered by Light publication DMA
Lists. Catalog of Maps,
110-116
Charts, and Related
Products, Part 2, Vol
1, Section 10
3-3
Transit Planning Publications
Introduction Transit planning can best be described as the process of gathering and
compiling information to ensure a safe and efficient voyage. There are
many publications that the Quartermaster uses for transit planning. The
publications listed in this section must be studied thoroughly. You should
make every attempt to establish an in-depth working knowledge of all
publications that are available to the QM.
Coast Pilots Charts are limited in what can be shown by symbols and abbreviations
regarding channels, hazards, winds and currents, restricted areas, port
facilities, pilotage service, and many other types of information needed by
a navigator for safe and efficient navigation. These deficiencies are
remedied by the Coast Pilots published by NOS and the Sailing
Directions published by DMAHTC.
U.S. Coast Pilots are published in nine numbered volumes to cover the
waters of the United States and its possessions. They are of great value to
a navigator when used with charts of an area both during the planning
stage of a voyage and in the actual transit of the area. The contents of
Coast Pilots have been stored in a computerized data bank, and volumes
are reprinted annually with all intervening changes included (except CP8
and CP9, which are revised every 2 years). Interim changes are published
in Notices to Mariners and Local Notices to Mariners.
Fleet Guides The Defense Mapping Agency Hydrographic/Topographic Center

publishes, for U.S. Navy use only, Fleet Guides. These are Pub. No 940,
Atlantic Area, and Pub. No 941, Pacific Area. These guides contain a
number of chapters, each of which covers a port of major interest to naval
vessels. They are prepared to provide important command, navigational,
repair, and logistic information. This information is much like that
contained in Coast Pilots and Sailing Directions, but it is oriented toward
naval interests and requirements; they are not needed by, nor are they
available to, non-naval vessels.
The information in Fleet Guides is corrected and updated through the

publication of changes and/or new editions when required; interim
corrections are published in Notices to Mariners if the urgency so
warrants.
3-4
Transit Planning Publications, Continued
Sailing The DMAHTC Sailing Directions provide information comparable to the

Directions Coast Pilots for foreign coasts and coastal waters. They also provide
detailed information for the navigation team that cannot be shown on
charts. The appropriate volume of Sailing Directions, used with charts of
a suitable scale, should enable a navigator to approach strange waters with
adequate information for the vessel’s safety.
The Sailing Directions are based on a division of the world’s water into
eight "ocean basins" (but these are not the same as those used for two-
and three-digit chart numbers). Sailing Directions are given three-digit
identification numbers starting with DMAHTC Pub No. 121. The Sailing
Directions are made up of two components and contain information as
follows:
Planning Guides. Each Planning Guide covers an ocean basin containing

chapters of useful information about countries adjacent to that particular
ocean basin; information relative to the physical environment and local
coastal phenomena; references to publications and periodicals listing
danger areas; recommended ship routes; detailed electronic navigation
systems and buoyage systems pertaining to that ocean basin.
Changes for each Planning Guide and En route volume are prepared and
published on an as-required basis determined by the number of
accumulated revisions.
Figure 3-1. Limits of Sailing Directions.

3-5
Sailing En Route Volumes. Each En route volume includes detailed coastal and
Directions; port approach information, supplementing the largest scale chart available
En-Route from DMAHTC. It is intended for use in conjunction with the Planning
Volumes Guide for the ocean basin concerned. Each En route volume is divided
into a number of sectors, and for each sector information is provided on
available charts (with limits shown on an overall diagram as in U.S. chart
catalogs); winds, tides, and currents (shown on an outline chart); off-lying
dangers; coastal features; anchorages; and major ports (an annotated
chartlet with line drawings of aids to navigation and prominent
landmarks). Figure 3-1 shows the limits for all Sailing Directions
volumes.
List of Lights The DMAHTC List of

Lights, seven volumes,
cover foreign coasts of
the world (and limited
portions of U.S.
coasts); these are Pubs.
No. 110 through 116
(see fig. 3-2). The List
of Lights volumes
include descriptive
information similar to
Lights Lists, but
because of their greater
coverage areas, they list
only lighted aids to
navigation and fog
signals (lighted buoys
within harbors are
omitted). Each List of
Lights is published in a
new edition at intervals
of approximately 12
months; changes and
corrections are included
frequently, as they are
required, in Notices to
Figure 3-2. List of Lights.
Mariners.
3-6
Tide Tables and The Tide Tables are prediction tables published in four volumes by the
Tidal Current National Ocean Service. They are East Coast of North and South America,
Tables including Greenland; West Coast of North and South America, including
the Hawaiian Islands; Europe and the West Coast of Africa, including the
Mediterranean Sea; and Central and Western Pacific Ocean and the
Indian Ocean (annual editions). Each volume includes information on the
height and time of high and low water at thousands of locations; also
included is information on times of sunrise and sunset, moonrise and
moonset, and other astronomical phenomena. The Tide Tables will be
covered in detail in chapter 7.
Tidal Current Tables are prediction tables published in two volumes by

NOS--Atlantic Coast of North America, and Pacific Coast of North
America and Asia (annual editions); each volume includes data on the
times and strengths of flood and ebb currents and the time of slack water
for thousands of locations; also included are diagrams for certain heavily
traveled bodies of water that facilitate determination of optimum transit
times and speeds, and astronomical data similar to that in Tide Tables.
The Tidal Current Tables will be covered in detail in chapter 7.
Pilot Charts The Pilot Charts present available data in graphic form that will assist the
mariner in selecting the safest and fastest routes. Besides timely
information of a varied nature, Pilot Charts graphically depict magnetic
variation, currents, prevailing winds and calms, percentage of gales, tracks
of tropical and extratropical cyclones, wave heights, surface air and water
temperatures, percentage of fog, surface barometric pressure, ice and
iceberg limits, the location of ocean weather-station ships, and
recommended routes for steam and sailing vessels. Additionally, such
topics as winds (including gales and cyclones), pressures, temperatures,
visibility, and wave heights are discussed in brief paragraphs at the sides
of each chart. Pilot Charts are published quarterly with each sheet
containing three monthly charts and an article of general information.
3-7
Distances The Distances Between Ports publication contains information on ports of

Between Ports entry for the world. It is useful and easy to use. Ports are indexed by
number and name and laid out in a tabular format. The World Port Index
should be used as a quick reference guide only. Up-to-date information
and specific planning information must be obtained from the applicable
Sailing Directions, Coast Pilot, or Fleet Guide.
Another useful publication that gives information concerning the distance

a ship must travel between two ports is Distances Between United States
Ports, published by NOS; it tabulates approximately 10,000 distances
along the shortest routes marked by aids to navigation.
Figure 3-3. Distances Between Ports.
3-8
Celestial Navigation Publications
Almanacs Nautical Almanacs, volumes of information that tabulate the position of

various celestial bodies, the times of sunrise and sunset, moonrise and
moonset, and other astronomical data used by navigators, are prepared
jointly by the U.S. Naval Observatory and the Royal Greenwich
Observatory in England. However, the almanac volumes are printed both
in the United States and in England.
The Nautical Almanac is published annually, and the Air Almanac is

published twice each year. These publications give ephemeristic data for
marine and air navigation respectively (the Air Almanac can be, and
sometimes is, used by marine surface navigators). These volumes are
used in many others countries with minor modifications, chiefly changes
in the language used for page headings and in the explanatory material.
The Almanac for Computers is also published by the U.S. Naval
Observatory with mathematical data and instructions for the computation
of ephemeristic data using electronic computers or advanced models of
calculators. These almanacs are discussed in greater detail in later text.
Tables Sight Reduction Tables for Marine Navigation, Pub. No. 229, published by
DMAHTC, in six volumes, each volume covering 16° of latitude, North or
South (1° overlap between volumes) (see chapter 9).
Sight Reduction Tables for Air Navigation, Pub. No. 249, published by
DMAHTC in three volumes; offers somewhat greater ease and speed in
sight reduction, but has a limited range of declination and gives a lower
order of precision as to position (see chapter 9).
3-9
Publication Correction and Ordering
Introduction As charts and other publications accumulate a sufficient number of

changes and corrections, they are reprinted as a revision with the same
edition number or as a new edition. Certain publications, such as Light
Lists and Coast Pilots, are reprinted on an annual schedule. Other
publications may have numbered "changes" issued, usually in the form of
reprinted pages for direct insertion into the volume after the superseded
pages are removed.
Publication Publication correction procedures are the same as those listed in chapter 1
Correction for charts using the Notices to Mariners each week. The exception is that
you will either make direct pen and ink changes to the text in publications
or you may cut and paste information into the affected publication.
Caution: Do NOT use tape to make changes to publications, when

cutting and pasting information, use a glue stick to paste information.
Ordering Most publications are available from DMAHTC. Refer to chapter 10 of

the DMA Catalog of Maps, Charts, and Related Products to obtain the
correct DMA stock number. Follow the same procedures as you would to
order a chart as listed in chapter 1.
3-10
Chapter 4
The Nautical Road
Introduction In this chapter, you will be introduced to the components of the

maritime highway. Just as you would travel along a roadway in your
car by referring to a map and the road signs, the high seas, coastal
approaches, and harbors all have unique signposts to help ships find
their way.
The Nautical Road is comprised of two separate areas; Aids to

Navigation (ATONs) and the Navigation Rules. The ATONs are like
the signposts on the highway and the Navigation Rules compare to the
traffic laws that we follow.
Objectives Completion of this material will enable the student to:
Identify buoyage systems.

Recognize buoy types and state their purpose.
Compute the visibility of navigational lights.
Recognize day and range markers and state their purpose.
State the purpose of the rules of the road.
Describe all steering and sailing rules.
List at least four elements that make up an ATON’s characteristics.
Identify the following characteristics of ATON:
a. Color
b. Light rhythm and cycle
c. Number
State the two factors that determine the visibility of a lighted ATON.
Identify the following terms associated with light visibility
computations:
a. Horizon distance d. Nominal range
b. Meteorological visibility e. Geographic range
c. Luminous range f. Computed range
g. Computed visibility
4-1
Objectives, Continued
Objectives List the three elements used to identify a light at night.

State the differences between primary and secondary lights.
List two purposes of ranges.
Identify the differences between directional lights, daybeacons,
and minor lights.
Describe how light sector bearings are plotted on charts.
State the reason why sound signals are used on ATONs.
State the purpose of a RACON.
Identify the function of a buoyage system.
List the characteristics of lateral and cardinal buoyage systems.
Identify the differences between IALA region A and IALA
region B.
State which IALA region applies to the United States.
Identify and explain variations in the following U.S. Systems of
ATONs:
a. Intracoastal waterway (ICW)
b. Western rivers
c. Uniform State Waterway Marking System (USWMS)
Identify and distinguish between international and inland rules of
the road.
Topic Page
Navigational Lights 4-3
How to use the Light List 4-5
Characteristics of Lighted Aids to Navigation 4-6
Visibility of Lights 4-8
Types of Lights and Structures 4-14
Sector Lights 4-21
Buoys 4-24
Buoyage Systems 4-28
The United States System of Aids to Navigation 4-30
Rules of the Road 4-39
Maneuvering and Warning Signals 4-44
4-2
Navigational Lights
Information A ship cannot suspend operations merely because darkness falls and
daytime aids cannot be distinguished. For that reason, aids to navigation
are lighted whenever it is necessary and practical. For purposes of
identification, lights have individual characteristics regarding color,
brilliancy, and system of operation.
A light’s characteristics are usually printed on the chart near its symbol.
Detailed information on any particular aid to navigation may be found in
the appropriate volume of the Light List.
As you learned in the previous chapter, the Defense Mapping Agency

Hydrographic/ Topographic Center (DMAHTC) publishes List of Lights
in seven volumes which cover aids to navigation outside the continental
United States.
Aids located in the United States and its possessions are described in
Light List volumes published by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Figure 4-1. Light List.
4-3
Light List
Introduction Since the Light List is such an important publication for the
Quartermaster, and because you will no doubt use it frequently, we will
review it in greater detail here.
Light List for the United States and its possessions, including the
Intracoastal Waterway, the western rivers, and the Great Lakes for both
the United States and Canadian waters, are published annually by the
U.S. Coast Guard in six volumes.
Composition Each volume provides information on ATONs within a specific area of

the country; for example, Volume I, Atlantic Coast, describes aids to
navigation from St. Croix River, Maine, to Toms River, New Jersey.
Volume VI, Pacific Coast and Pacific Islands describes aids to
navigation on the Pacific Coast and outlying islands and so on.
The aids are listed such that seacoast aids appear first, followed by
entrance and harbor aids from seaward to the head of navigation. Light
List Numbers (LLNR) are assigned to all ATONs to facilitate reference
in the Light List and to resolve ambiguity when referencing ATONs.
Table 4-1 explains the page layout of the Light List.
Table 4-1. Sample of Light List
4-4
How to Use the Light List
Example Using the Light List is simple. As an example, suppose you need to
know the position and characteristic of Key West Harbor Range. To find
this information in the Light List follow these three steps while referring
to table 4-2.
Step Action
1. Look up the LLNR for Key West Harbor Range in the
index.
2. Next, find the page listing LLNR 12990 in the main pages.
Each aid to navigation is listed numerically by LLNR.
3. Extract the information you need for the aid. In this case,
the position of the light is 24°34.7'N, 081°48.0'W;
characteristic is quick flashing white.
Key West Harbor Main Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12890

KEY WEST HARBOR RANGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LLNR 12990
F
Table 4-2. Excerpt from Light List, Volume III, 1993
4-5
Characteristics of Lighted Aids to Navigation
Introduction Lights displayed from ATONs have distinct characteristics (rhythms)

which help you identify them. They all exhibit a distinctive flashing
rhythm. Use figure 4-2 to find the characteristic for any light.
Figure 4-2. Light characteristics.
4-6
Characteristics of Lighted Aids to Navigation, Continued
Defined Some aids, such as safe-water marks always use the same rhythm
(Morse "A"), while others may display one of several different rhythms.
Figure 4-2 on the previous page gives a description and definition of
light characteristics (rhythms) as well as their chart symbol
abbreviations. Abbreviations are used on charts because of space
restrictions.
When working with composite light abbreviations, you must carefully

distinguish between the meanings of the numbers in parentheses
following a composite-flashing light. In the case of the
composite-flashing light, the numbers refer to the pattern of the flashes
of light. On the contrary, when the light is a composite-occulting light,
the numbers within the parentheses denote the pattern of the eclipses in
the light.
Light Cycle The "Light Cycle," or period of a light, is the time it takes a light to
complete one full cycle of ON and OFF changes. By varying the length
of the cycles, a clear distinction can be made between numerous aids in
the same area.
Numbering All solid red and solid green ATONs are numbered. Red aids have even
and numbers; green aids have odd numbers. The numbers for each increase
Lettering from seaward, proceeding in the conventional direction of buoyage.
Numbers are kept in approximate sequence on both sides of the channel
by omitting numbers where necessary.
Letters may be used to augment numbers when lateral aids are added to
channels with previously completed numbering sequences. If letters are
used, they will increase in alphabetical order from seaward and will be
added to numbers as suffixes.
No other aids are numbered. Preferred-channel, safe-water, isolated

danger, special marks, and information or regulatory aids may be
lettered, but not numbered.
4-7
Visibility of Lights
Information The visibility of a lighted ATON depends upon two factors: the light’s
intensity and the light’s height above water. There will be times when
you will want to know the specific distance at which you will be able to
see a light, such as approaching land from sea. This information can be
helpful in determining the ship’s position.
Rule: When a ship is under way all navigational lights that will be
sighted during periods of darkness must be identified in the Captain’s
Night Orders. It is desirable to also define the time at which the light
should be sighted.
Process Refer to the following table to view the process of determining the
visibility of a light.
Step Action Result

1. Locate the light on the chart Information gained for
and note the name of the light. obtaining LLNR from the
Light List.
2. Extract the characteristics from Height of eye computation can
the Light List. now be done.
3. Compute the distance at which Information concerning when a
the light should be sighted light should be sighted is
from the height of eye table. obtained.
Table 4-3. Height of Eye
4-8
Visibility of Lights, Continued
Understanding There are several terms associated with any light’s visibility. Figure 4-3
the will help you to visualize the relationships existing among these terms as
Relationships they apply in a situation in which an observer with a height of 50 feet is
Among Terms located exactly at the computed range to a light having a geographic
range of 11.7 miles and a nominal range of 15 miles. Review figure 4-3
and the associated terms list on the next page.
Figure 4-3. Relationship of light visibility terms.
4-9
Visibility of Lights, Continued
Terms The following is a list of terms associated with light visibility

computations:
Horizon distance - This is the distance expressed in nautical miles from

the position above the surface of Earth along a line of sight to the
horizon; the line along which Earth and sky appear to meet. The higher
the position, the farther the horizon distance will be. Figure 4-3 shows
the relationship of height of eye to horizon distance.
Meteorological visibility - Meteorological visibility results primarily

from the amount of particulate matter and water vapor present in the
atmosphere at the location of an observer. It denotes the range at which
the unaided human eye can see an unlighted object by day in a given set
of meteorological conditions.
Luminous range - Luminous range is the maximum distance at which a

light may be seen under the existing meteorological visibility conditions.
Luminous range does not take into account the height of the light, the
observer’s height of eye, or the curvature of Earth. It depends only on
the intensity of the light itself.
Nominal range - Nominal range is the maximum distance a light can be

seen in clear weather (meteorological visibility of 10 nautical miles).
Nominal range is similar to luminous range in that it does not take into
account elevation, height of eye, or curvature of Earth, but it depends on
the intensity of the light. Nominal range is listed in column 6 of the
Light List for all lighted aids to navigation except range lights,
directional lights, and private aids to navigation.
Geographic range - Geographic range is the maximum distance at

which a light may be seen in perfect visibility by an observer whose eye
is at sea level.
Computed range - Computed range is the geographic range plus the

observer’s distance to the horizon based on the observer’s height of eye.
Computed visibility - Computed visibility is the visibility determined

for a light using the light’s height, nominal range, and height of eye of
the observer.
4-10
How to Compute the Visibility of a Light
Information Frequently, the navigator will want to know at what time and position
on the ship’s track a given light might be sighted. This information is
especially important when the ship is making a landfall. Failure to sight
certain lights when expected could mean that a navigational error has
been made. The distance calculated is termed the computed visibility of
the light.
Rule: When you compute the visibility of a light, the computed

visibility will NEVER exceed the light’s luminous range.
Examples The following examples illustrate the recommended procedure for

determining the visibility of a light. Bear in mind that computed
visibility cannot be greater than the luminous range.
Example 1: Determine the visibility of light Alpha for an observer with

a height of eye of 50 feet.
Solution: From the Light List, the nominal range is determined to be 20

miles; the height of light Alpha is 90 feet above the water. Determine
horizon distance from table 4-1.
Height of eye for 50 feet 8.3 miles

Height of light (80 feet) 11.1 miles
Computed visibility 19.4 miles
Nominal range 20.0 miles
Answer: 19.4 miles
Example 2: Determine the visibility of light Bravo for an observer with

a height of eye of 35 feet.
Solution: From the Light List, determine the nominal range (10 miles)
and the height of the light above water (80 feet). Determine horizon
distance from table 4-1.
Height of eye for 35 feet 6.9 miles

Height of light (80 feet) 10.5 miles
Computed visibility 17.4 miles
Nominal range 10.0 miles
Answer: 10.0 miles
4-11
Luminous Range Diagram
Luminous The luminous range diagram (fig. 4-4) enables the mariner to determine
Range Diagram the approximate range at which a light may be sighted at night in the
existing meteorological visibility at the time of observation.
Figure 4-4. Luminous range diagram.
4-12
How to Use the Luminous Range Diagram
How to Use the The diagram is entered from the top or bottom border, using nominal
Luminous range obtained from the Light List. The figures along the curves
Range Diagram represent the estimated meteorological visibility at the time of
observation, and those along the left-hand border represent the luminous
range under those conditions.
Example: A light has a nominal range of 20 miles. If the

meteorological visibility is 20 miles, the light would be sighted at about
33 miles. If the meteorological visibility is only 5 miles, the luminous
range of the light is about 12 miles.
When using this diagram, you must remembered that:
the range obtained is approximate.

atmospheric conditions may not be consistent between the observer
and the light.
the glare of background lighting will reduce the range at which light
is sighted.
4-13
Types of Lights and Light Structures
Information Primary and secondary lights are so designated because of their

importance as ATONs. Primary seacoast aids are distinctive lights in
the U.S. system of ATONs. They are "fixed" as opposed to "floating"
and are maintained on the mainland, or on offshore islands and shoals to
warn mariners of the nearness of land or dangers. They are usually the
first ATONs that the navigator sees when making a landfall. The
navigator can use these lights to keep farther offshore at night. When
lights are located offshore, they mark a specific hazard or serve as a
marker for ships approaching a major harbor.
Many lights are classified as primary lights because of the importance of

their location, their intensity, and the prominence of their structures.
Other aids are classed as secondary or minor lights because of their
lesser qualities in one or more of these characteristics. The dividing line
is not clear cut, and the difference is of no significance when applied to
piloting situations.
Lighthouses These familiar structures are typical primary lights found along the
coastlines around much of the world. Lighthouses are placed on
prominent headlands and other points such as harbor entrances and
isolated dangers to warn mariners of danger or to guide them. The
principal purpose of the structure is to support a light source and lens at
a considerable height above the water. The same structure may also
house a fog signal, a radiobeacon, RACON, and other equipment.
Lighthouses vary greatly in shape and construction (fig. 4-5), which is

determined in part by their location (whether in the water or on shore),
the importance of their light, the kind of soil on which they are
constructed, and the prevalence of violent storms. Since lighthouses are
nonlateral aids, their paint color schemes are quite different than
traditional lateral marks. Lighthouse structures are painted in various
patterns such as stripes and solids, which help mariners to easily
distinguish them from other such structures in the same vicinity.
4-14
Types of Lights and Light Structures, Continued
Figure 4-5. Typical lighthouses.
Light Towers For many years, lightships were used to mark offshore dangers or mark
the entrances to important harbors. Today, however, lightships are no
longer used in the United States. Instead, they have all been replaced by
light towers or large navigational buoys (LNBs) which, especially in the
case of the LNB, are much more economical to maintain.
A typical tower deckhouse is 60 feet above the water, 80 feet square,

and supported by steel legs in pilings driven nearly 300 feet into the
ocean bottom. Though once manned, these light towers are now
automated. The light tower has a helicopter landing deck and houses
equipment such as a radiobeacon, RACON, fog signal, and
communications equipment. On one comer of the deckhouse is a radio
tower supporting the radiobeacon antenna and a powerful light. At an
elevation of 125 feet above the water, the light is visible for over 20
miles. Although construction details of other towers vary slightly, they
are of the same general type.
4-15
Ranges One purpose of a range is to assist mariners in keeping their vessels on

the centerline of a channel. The range may be lighted or unlighted and
consists of two lights and daymarks located some distance apart with the
front display lower than the rear. When the range markers appear one
over the other as shown in figure 4-6, the vessel will remain within the
limits of the channel. Another purpose of a range is to determine a
ship’s gyro error.
Figure 4-6. Using range markers.
4-16
Ranges For a given range, the true bearing of the range axis will be listed in
continued column 2 of the Light List immediately below the name of the rear
range. As you approach this range and line up the lights and daymarks
as shown in figure 4-6, you are on channel centerline. In figure 4-6, if
the channel axis is listed as 020° and your ship has the markers in line,
your gyro compass should read 020°. If it does not, the difference in
degrees will equal your gyro error.
While the range markers discussed above are precisely positioned to

mark a channel, you should also be aware that natural ranges are also
used on occasion. For example, a tank and a radio antenna, when
observed in line, may form a natural range marking safe water.
Directional In certain situations where range lights are desirable but not practicable
Lights to build, a less effective, but generally accepted substitute known as a
directional light is used. A directional light illuminates a sector or
displays a very narrow angle light beam for a ship to follow. In some
cases, three colors of light are used. A high intensity white light will be
bordered on each side with a green and red light. The green sector will
mark the side of the channel with green buoys, and the red sector marks
the side with red buoys. Remaining in the white sector keeps you in the
channel.
Figure 4-7. Daymarks.
4-17
Daybeacons There are many ATONs that are not lighted, especially in the inland
waters of the United States. Structures of this are called daybeacons
(fig. 4-7). They are not buoys, but are permanently mounted in position.
Daybeacons vary greatly in design and construction, depending on their
location and the distance from which they must be seen. A daybeacon
may consist of a single pile with a daymark on the top, a multi-pile
structure, a tower, or a structure of masonry or steel. Daybeacons are
fitted with reflecting tape to facilitate their identification by searchlight
at night. Daymarks marking the sides of channels are colored and
numbered in the same manner as buoys, with red even-numbered marks
indicating a starboard-side channel boundary and green odd-numbered
marks on the portside channel boundary. The shapes for channel,
preferred-channel, nonlateral, and safe-water daymarks, together with
their chart symbols, are shown in chart No. 1 and on plate 1.
Minor Lights Just as daybeacons are sometimes

substituted for unlighted buoys,
lighted buoys are often replaced by
minor lights (fig. 4-8). Minor lights
are fixed structures of the same
overall physical features as
daybeacons, but are equipped with
lights generally similar in
characteristics to those found on
buoys. Minor lights can be used in
a series with other aids to mark
channels, rivers, or harbors and can
be used to mark some isolated
areas.
The term minor light does not

include the more important lights
marking harbors, peninsulas, major
shoals, and so on, which have lights Figure 4-8. Minor light.
of greater intensity and/or special
characteristics and were discussed earlier in this manual. Daymarks are
placed on the structures for identification, and reflective material is
added for nighttime safety in case the light is extinguished. A minor
light normally has the same color, flash, and phase characteristic as that
of a lighted buoy. Intensity of the light is generally of the same order as
that of a lighted buoy, but visibility may be increased by its greater
height above water.
4-18
Factors Associated with Navigational Lights
Light Colors There are only three light colors in common use on fixed lighted
navigation aids--white, green, and red. All lighted navigation aids,
regardless of the color of their light, are symbolized on a chart either by
a magenta colored ray in the form of an exclamation point or by a one-
eighth-inch magenta circle, superimposed over a black dot indicating the
location of the light.
On charts, the color of the light, if other than white, is indicated by the
abbreviations R for red and G for green, written near the light symbol.
A white light has no abbreviation on a chart. Thus, if a magenta light
symbol appears on a chart with no color abbreviation nearby, the
navigator should assume its color to be white.
In the Light List and List of Lights, however, the color of a white light is
indicated by the abbreviation W.
Alternating If a light is made to change color in a regular pattern, either by

Lights alternately energizing different color lights or by passing colored lenses
around the same light, the light is an alternating light, abbreviated Al.
Alternating lights used in conjunction with different phase characteristics

show a very distinctive appearance that cannot be easily mistaken. Their
use is generally reserved for special applications requiring the exercise
of great caution, such as airport beacons, harbor entrance lights, and
lighthouses.
4-19
Sector Lights
Information Sectors of colored glass are placed in the lanterns of certain lighthouses
to indicate danger bearings within which a ship will be in danger of
running on rocks, shoals, or some other hazard. The arcs over which a
red light shows are the danger sectors whose bearings usually appear on
the chart. Although the light is red within the danger arc, its
characteristics remain the same. It should be noted, however, that the
red light within the red sector may not be as visible as the white light
outside that sector.
Sectors may be only a few degrees in width, marking an isolated

obstruction, or they may be so wide that they extend from the direction
of deep water to the beach.
In most instances, red sectors indicate water areas to be avoided. A

narrow green sector may signify a turning point or the best water across
a shoal. Exact significance of each sector may be obtained from the
chart.
Exercise caution so that the danger sectors are not mistaken for the
sectors of good water or that incorrect bearings are taken from the chart.
All sector bearings are true bearings in degrees running clockwise

around the light as a center and are expressed as BEARINGS
OBSERVED FROM THE SHIP TOWARDS THE LIGHT.
Take a look at the example presented in figure 4-9. The Light List
Remarks column shows Cape Henry Light (LLNR 365) as having a red
sector from 154° to 233°. As long as your ship is within this sector, the
light will appear red. In this same example you will also note that the
nominal range of the red light is 15 miles, while the same light in the
white sector has a nominal range of 17 miles. The reason for this
difference is that a white light of a certain intensity is visible for a
longer distance than a red light of the same intensity.
4-20
Sector Lights, Continued
Figure 4-9. Light sectors are expressed as observed from the ship to the light.
4-21
Sector Lights, Continued
Sector Lights, On either side of the line of demarcation between colored and white
continued sectors, there is always a small sector whose color is doubtful because
the edges of a sector cannot be cut off sharply. Under some
atmospheric conditions, a white light may have a reddish appearance.
Consequently, light sectors must not be relied upon entirely; but position
must be verified repeatedly by bearings taken on the light itself or by
other fixed objects.
When a light is cut off (obscured) by adjoining land, the arc of visibility
may vary with a ship’s distance away from the light. If the intervening
land is sloping, for example, the light may be visible over a wider arc
from a far off ship than from one close inshore.
Emergency Emergency lights of reduced intensity are displayed from many primary
Lights lights when the main light is extinguished. These emergency lights may
or may not have the same characteristic as the main light. The
characteristic of the emergency lights are listed in column 8 of the Light
List. Again, refer to the example shown in figure 4-9 for Cape Henry
Light (LLNR 365).
RACONs A RACON is a radar beacon that produces a coded response, or radar

paint, when triggered by a radar signal. The coded response appears on
your radar screen as a series of dots and dashes. RACONs are placed
on important ATONs (buoys or structures) to assist in positive
identification of the aid. Column 8 of the Light List will describe the
RACON signal both as a Morse code letter and the equivalent dots and
dashes, for example RACON: X (-..-).
4-22
Buoys
Buoys Buoys are, in effect, floating sign posts for the mariner. Their color,
shape, number, light, or sound characteristic tell the mariner how to
transit safe water and avoid navigational hazards, and assist the mariner
in following the proper course.
Buoy symbols shown on charts (see

fig. 4-10) indicate the approximate position
of the buoy and of the sinker that moors
the buoy to the bottom. The approximate
position is used because it is difficult to
keep a buoy and its moorings in an exact
geographical location. These difficulties
include, but are not limited to, imprecise Figure 4-10. Buoy symbol
methods of position fixing, existing atmospheric and sea conditions, and
variations in the seabed’s slope and makeup. The position of the buoy
can be expected to shift inside and outside the area shown on the chart
because they are moored with excess chain. In addition, buoys and
sinkers are normally checked only during periodic maintenance visits,
which often occur more than a year apart.
Types of Buoys There are many different types of buoys in our buoyage system, with
each type designed to meet certain requirements. All buoys assist
mariners during daylight hours, and those with light, sound signals, or
both, serve the mariner during darkness or periods of low visibility. The
following are the principal types of buoys you will encounter:
Spar buoys are cylindrical in shape and are often constructed from large
logs, which are trimmed, shaped, and appropriately painted. Some are
metal, plastic, or fiberglass.
Can buoys (fig. 4-11) are built such that the upper portion that you
observe resembles a can. These buoys are unlighted and will be painted
green or have green and red horizontal bands.
Nun buoys (fig. 4-11) are built such that the upper portion you observe
resembles a cone with a rounded tip. Like cans, these are also unlighted
and will be painted red or have red and green horizontal bands.
Spherical buoys are unlighted and are round in shape. These buoys are
painted with red and white vertical stripes.
4-23
Buoys, Continued
Types of Buoys Bell buoys have a flat top, surmounted by a skeleton steel framework
supporting a bell. The bell usually has four clappers, which strike the
bell as the buoy moves with the sea.
Gong buoys are similar to bell buoys except they have a series of gongs,
each with a different tone.
Figure 4-11. Can buoy on the left and nun buoy on the right.
Figure 4-12. Lighted buoy.
4-24
Buoys, Continued
Types of Buoys Whistle buoys are similar to bell buoys except they carry a whistle
sounded by the sea’s motion or a horn that is sounded at regular
intervals by electrical means.
Lighted buoys (fig. 4-12) carry batteries and are surmounted by a

framework supporting a light. The framework has no navigational
significance, it simply supports the light and sound equipment. Many
lighted buoys carry a solar panel atop the light to recharge the battery
during daylight hours.
Combination buoys have a combined light and sound signal, such as a

lighted bell, gong, or whistle buoy. Some of the most important
combination buoys also carry a RACON.
Large Large navigational buoys (LNBs) are disc-shaped buoys that may be as
Navigational large as 40 feet in diameter.
Buoys
LNBs provide a platform for a light, fog signal, radiobeacon, and
meteorological sensors that transmit data ashore. LNBs were developed
primarily to replace manned lightships and light towers.
They are normally stationed many miles from shore and are moved from
time to time. Special attention must be paid to these buoys when laying
coastal and open ocean tracks.
4-25
Buoy Identification
Information All buoys are fitted with retroreflective materials that show well when
illuminated with a spotlight, and most buoys are fitted with radar
reflectors.
Retroreflective material is applied to lighted as well as unlighted buoys

to increase their visibility. This application greatly assists you in
locating aids at night using a searchlight. Retroreflective material may
be red, green, white, or yellow; the coloring has the same significance as
the colors of lights.
Many buoys are equipped with radar reflectors, which are vertical metal
plates set at right angles to each other in such a manner as to greatly
increase the echo returned to a radar receiver aboard ship. The plates
are shaped and mounted in order to preserve the overall characteristic
shape of an unlighted buoy or the general appearance of a lighted buoy.
Some buoys have a radar reflector mounted inside the actual body of the
buoy.
CAUTION Although buoys are valuable ATONs, you must never depend
exclusively on them—they may fail. Some of the reasons for their
failure are as follows:
Passing vessels may hit a buoy and shift it, overturn it, or set it adrift.
Buoys can drag their moorings in heavy weather.
The light on a lighted buoy may fail or be extinguished.
Sound signals may not function because of ice, storm damage, collisions,
or other accidents.
Whistles, bells, and gongs actuated by the sea’s motion may fail to
function in smooth water. For these reasons, a prudent mariner must not
rely completely upon the position or operation of buoys, but must also
navigate using bearings from fixed structures and ATONs on shore.
4-26
Buoyage Systems
Systems A buoyage system consists of fixed, floating, lighted, and unlighted

ATONs. These aids are used to mark waterways. There are two
buoyage systems that are in use throughout the world-the lateral
system and the cardinal system.
Lateral System In the lateral system, aids are placed to mark the sides of a navigable
channel. They also mark junctions and bifurcations, indicate the safe
side on which to pass hazards, and mark the general safe centerline of
wide bodies of water.
In U.S. waters, a vessel returning from seaward and proceeding toward

the head of navigation is generally considered as moving southerly along
the Atlantic Coast, westerly along the Gulf Coast, and northerly along
the Pacific Coast. This is what is known as the "conventional direction"
of buoyage. Virtually all U.S. lateral marks are located in what is
known as IALA region B and follow the traditional "red right returning"
rule.
Cardinal System In the cardinal system, aids generally mark the geographic relationship
to the aid of a hazard in terms of 90-degree quadrants centered on the
cardinal directions of north, east, south, and west. The cardinal system
is not widely used in the United States and will not be discussed in this
text. For more information on the cardinal system, consult Dutton's
Navigation and Piloting or Bowditch.
4-27
International Association of Light Authorities (IALA)
Background In years past, mariners had to be familiar with many different types of
buoyage systems worldwide, because there was no standardized system
in use. Some of the features of these different buoyage systems had
completely opposite meanings, which often led to confusion and
accidents. In the mid 1970’s, the International Association of
Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) developed and secured acceptance of two
systems of buoyage known as IALA A and IALA B. Both systems use
a combination of cardinal and lateral marks plus unique marks for
isolated dangers, safe-water, and special-purpose areas.
IALA Systems The IALA system uses buoy shape, color, and, if lighted, rhythm of
flashes to convey the desired information to the navigator. The system
also uses special topmarks, which are small distinctive shapes above the
basic aid to facilitate identification.
IALA System A is used in Europe, Africa, and most of Asia, including

Australia and New Zealand. In this system, cardinal marks are widely
used. Red buoys are kept to port when entering from seaward; green
buoys are kept to starboard.
IALA system B is used in North, Central, and South America, Japan,

South Korea, and the Philippines. Cardinal marks are permitted in this
system but are seldom used. Red buoys are kept to starboard (red right
returning) when entering from seaward, green buoys are kept to port.
Figure 4-13 shows how the two IALA regions are divided worldwide.
Figure 4-13. The IALA buoyage system.
4-28
The United States System of Aids to Navigation
Information The system of ATONs used in the United States consists of buoys,
lights, and daybeacons conforming to the IALA region B guidelines as
well as certain variations which are used exclusively in this country.
Figures 4-14 through 4-16 graphically display the variations that exist in
the U.S. system.
Figure 4-14 shows the U.S. ATONs system as seen entering from
seaward.
Figure 4-15 represents a visual buoyage guide for IALA region B.
Figure 4-16 shows how the visual guide would appear on a nautical
chart.
Figure 4-17 shows ATONs as they appear on the western rivers of the
United States.
4-29
4-30
Figure 4-14. Lateral system as seen entering from seaward.

Figure 4-15. Visual buoyage guide for IALA region B.
4-31
Figure 4-16. How the visual guide would appear on a nautical chart.
4-32
4-33
Figure 4-17. Aids to navigation as they appear on the western rivers of the United States.
Characteristics of Aids To Navigation
Characteristics The characteristics of ATONs include such things as color, light

rhythms, cycle, number, and sound signal. In the pages that follow,
we’ll discuss these characteristics as they apply to the buoyage system
used in the United States.
Solid Colors During daylight hours, the color of an aid to navigation tells you which
side of a channel the aid marks, regardless of whether the aid is a buoy,
light, or daybeacon. At night, the color of a lighted aid serves the same
purpose. Only ATONs with green or red lights have lateral significance.
When proceeding in the conventional direction of buoyage in IALA
region B, you may see the following ATONs:
Green buoys (and lights and daybeacons with square-shaped green

daymarks) mark the port side of a channel when returning from seaward.
Green buoys will only have green lights.
Red buoys (and lights and daybeacons with triangular-shaped red

daymarks) mark the starboard side of a channel when returning from
seaward. This is the "red right returning" rule you may have heard of.
Red buoys will only have red lights.
Striped Buoys Green and red (or red and green) horizontally striped buoys
(daymarks for daybeacons and lights) are called preferred-channel
marks. These aids are used to mark junctions (the point where a
channel divides when proceeding seaward) or bifurcations (the point
where the channel divides when proceeding from seaward). They may
also be used to mark wrecks or obstructions that may be passed on
either side. Here is how they are used in our buoyage system:
If the topmost band is green, keep the buoy to port to follow the
preferred channel.
If the aid is a light or daybeacon and the topmost band is green, the
daymarks will be square-shaped and the light color will be green
regardless of the type.
If the topmost band is red, keep the buoy to starboard to follow the
preferred channel.
If the aid is a light or daybeacon and the topmost band is red, the
daymarks will be triangular-shaped and the light color will be red
regardless of the type.
4-34
Characteristics of Aids To Navigation, Continued
Safe Water Red and white vertically striped buoys (daymarks for daybeacons and
Marks lights) are called safe-water marks. They are used to mark a
mid-channel, fairway, or landfall. Safe-water marks have white lights.
Black and red horizontally banded buoys are called isolated danger
marks. They are used to mark an isolated danger that has navigable
water all around it. Isolated danger marks have white lights.
Yellow buoys and beacons are called special-purpose marks. They are
used to mark anchorages, dredging, and fishnet areas. These aids have
yellow lights.
Nonlateral aids are lights and daybeacons that have no lateral

significance in our system of buoyage. Daymarks for these aids are
diamond-shaped and will either be red and white, green and white, or
black and white. The light color will always be white. These aids are
used primarily as landmarks for navigation.
4-35
Sound Signals
Background A sound signal is a term used to describe ATONs that produce an

Information audible signal designed to assist the mariner in fog or other periods of
reduced visibility. Sound signals can be activated by several means,
such as manually, remotely, or by a fog detector device. It should be
noted, however, that in patchy fog conditions, a fog detector may not
always activate the signal.
Sound signals are distinguished by their tone and phase characteristics.

The tones are determined by the devices producing the sound, such as a
horn, bell, or gong. Phase characteristics are defined by the signal’s
sound pattern, or the number of blasts and silent periods per minute
when operating. In the case of fixed structures, sound signals generally
produce a specific number of blasts and silent periods every minute;
buoy sound signals generally do not because the sound signal is
generated by wave action.
The characteristic of a sound signal can be found in column 8 of the

Light List. For example, for Chesapeake Light (LLNR 355) it reads
s s
"Horn: 1 blast ev 30 (3 bt)." What this means is that 30 seconds is the
time required for one complete cycle to occur. During this 30-second
cycle, there are 27 seconds of silence and 3 seconds of blast. You can
time this cycle with a stopwatch just like a light. Timing a sound signal
is another method of positively identifying an ATON. Unless it is
specifically stated that a sound signal "Operates continuously," or the
signal is a bell, gong, or whistle on a buoy, it can be assured that the
sound signal only operates during fog, reduced visibility, or adverse
weather.
CAUTIONS TO OBSERVE IN USING SOUND SIGNALS: Sound

signals depend upon the transmission of sound through the air. As
ATONs, they have certain inherent limitations that you must consider.
Sound travels through air in a variable and unpredictable manner. At
times, these signals may be completely inaudible even when close by.
At other times, they may appear to be coming from a direction quite
different than the actual bearing of the signal source. Mariners should
not rely on sound signals to determine their positions.
4-36
Intracoastal Waterway
Information The Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is a largely sheltered waterway,

suitable for year-round use, extending some 2,400 miles along the
Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the United States. In general, it follows
natural waterways.
ATONs along the ICW have some portion of them marked with yellow.
Otherwise, the coloring and numbering of the ATONs follow the same
system as that in other U.S. waterways.
So vessels may readily follow the ICW, special markings consisting of

yellow triangles and squares are employed. When you are following the
ICW from the north along the Atlantic Coast and west along the Gulf
Coast, aids displaying yellow triangles should be kept to starboard; those
aids displaying yellow squares should be kept to port, regardless of the
color of the aid on which they appear. Nonlateral aids in the ICW, such
as ranges, safe-water, and other nonlateral daymarks, will be identified
by the addition of a yellow stripe instead of a triangle or square.
The conventional direction of buoyage in the ICW is generally southerly

along the Atlantic Coast and generally westerly along the Gulf Coast.
Western Rivers Aids to navigation on the western rivers of the United States--the
Mississippi River and its tributaries above Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and
on other certain rivers that flow towards the Gulf of Mexico--are
generally similar to those on other U.S. waters, but there are a few
differences that should be noted (see fig. 4-17).
ATONs are not numbered. Numbers on ATONs do not have lateral

significance, but instead, indicate mileage from a fixed point.
Diamond-shaped crossing daymarks, red or green as appropriate, are

used to indicate where the river channel crosses from one bank to
another.
Lights on green aids show a single flash, which may be green or white.
Lights on red aids show a double flash, which may be red or white.
Isolated danger marks are not used.
This concludes or discussion on ATONs and the buoyage system. We

now have information on the road signs of the nautical road. We can
now take a look at the traffic laws, or as they are known, the Rules of
the Road.
4-37
Rules of the Road
Background As a Quartermaster, you are required to know how to operate your

Information ship's sound signaling equipment. You must also be able to interpret
whistle and bell signals as they apply to the rules of the road. The rules
of the road are published by the Coast Guard in a booklet entitled
Navigation Rules (COMDINST Ml6672.2B).
International Rules are specific rules for all vessels on the high seas and
in connecting waters navigable by seagoing vessels. The Inland Rules
apply to all vessels upon the inland waters of the United States and to
vessels of the United States on the Canadian waters of the Great Lakes
to the extent that there is no conflict with Canadian law.
The International Rules were formalized at the convention on the

International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972. These
rules are commonly called 72 COLREGS. The Inland Rules discussed
in this chapter replace the old Inland Rules, Western River Rules, Great
Lakes Rules, their respective pilot rules, and parts of the Motorboat Act
of 1940. Many of the old navigation rules were originally enacted in the
last century. Occasionally, provisions were added to cope with the
increasing complexities of water transportation. Eventually, the
navigation rules for the United States inland waterways became such a
confusing patchwork of requirements that in the 1960s several
unsuccessful attempts were made to revise and simplify them.
Following the signing of the 72 COLREGS, a new effort was made to

unify and update the various Inland Rules. This effort was also aimed at
making the Inland Rules as similar as possible to the 72 COLREGS.
The Inland Navigation Rules of 1980, now in effect, are the result. The
International/Inland Rules contain 38 rules that comprise the main body
of the Rules and five annexes which are the regulations. The
International/Inland Rules are broken down in parts as follows:
A-General
B-Steering and Sailing Rules
C-Lights and Shapes
D-Sound and Light Signals
E-Exemptions
4-38
Steering and Sailing Rules
Information In this portion of the chapter a short discussion of the steering and
sailing rules will be presented, but the majority of our discussion will be
about part D, which contains the requirements for sound signals.
You must understand the steering and sailing rules and be able to apply
them to various traffic situations. Although all rules of the road are
important, the steering and sailing rules are the most essential to know
to avoid collision. The risk of collision can be considered to exist if the
bearing of an approaching vessel does not change appreciably.
NOTE: When you are approaching a very large vessel, or when you are
in close quarters, a bearing change alone does not necessarily mean that
a collision cannot happen.
Figures 4-18, 4-19, and 4-20 illustrate the three situations in which the
danger of collision might exist: head-on, crossing, and overtaking. The
illustrations and the following summary will help you learn the rules and
the appropriate actions to take.
Head On When two ships meet

head on, or nearly so
(fig. 4-18), each ship
must change course to
starboard and pass
port-to-port. In
international waters, a
whistle signal is
sounded only when a
course change is
actually made. If the
meeting ships are
already far enough off
each other to pass clear
on their present courses,
no signal is sounded.
Figure 4-18. Ships in a head on situation.
4-39
Steering and Sailing Rules, Continued
Crossing When two power-driven vessels are crossing and involve risk of collision
(fig. 4-19), the vessel having the other to starboard must keep out of the
way and will avoid usually by turning to starboard and passing astern of
the other vessel or, if circumstances permit, speeding up and crossing
ahead of the other vessel.
Figure 4-19. Two ships in a crossing situation.

A sailing vessel has the right-of-way over power-driven vessels except
when the sailing vessel is overtaking, or when the power-driven vessel is
engaged in fishing, is not under command, or is restricted in its ability to
maneuver.
Overtaking Any vessel overtaking another must keep clear of the overtaken vessel.
An overtaking vessel is one that is approaching another vessel from any
direction more than 22.5 degrees abaft its beam (fig. 4-20). When in
doubt, assume you are overtaking and act accordingly.
Figure 4-20. Two ships in all overtaking situation.
4-40
Signals between Vessels
Information Before we get into the requirements for signals, you must first understand
the terms we will use.
Term Definition
Vessel The word vessel includes every description of watercraft

including nondisplacement and seaplanes, used or
capable of being used as a means of transportation.
Power-Driven Any vessel propelled by machinery.

Vessel
Sailing Vessel Any vessel under sail, provided that propelling
machinery is not being used.
Engaged in Any vessel fishing with nets, lines, trawls, or other

Fishing apparatus that restrict maneuverability, does not include
a vessel fishing with trolling or other fishing apparatus
that do not restrict maneuverability.
Not Under Any vessel that, through some exceptional

Command circumstances, is unable to maneuver as required by
rules and is therefore unable to keep out of way of
another vessel (i.e. broke down).
Restricted in Its Any vessel that, from the nature of its work, is restricted
Ability to in its ability to maneuver as required by these rules and
Maneuver is therefore unable keep out of the way of another
vessel.
Constrained by A power-driven vessel that, because of draft in relation

Draft to the available depth of water, is severely restricted in
its ability to deviate from the course it is following
(International Rules)
Under Way Any vessel not at anchor, made fast to the shore, pier,
wharf, or aground.
Length and A vessel’s length overall and greatest beam or width.

Breadth
Signals between Vessels, Continued
4-41
Signals between Vessels, Continued
Term Definition
In Sight of One Only when one can be seen from the other.
Another
Seaplane Any aircraft that maneuvers on the water.
Restricted Any condition in which visibility is restricted by fog,

Visibility mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sandstorm, or any
other similar causes.
Inland Waters The navigable waters of the United States shoreward of

the navigational demarcation lines dividing the high
seas from harbors, rivers, and other such bodies of
waters of the United States, and the waters of the Great
Lakes of the United States side of the International
Boundary.
Demarcation Lines delineating those waters upon which mariners

Lines must comply with the 72 COLREGS and those waters
on which mariners must comply with the Inland
Navigation Rules. (The boundaries for the demarcation
lines are listed in the back of the Coast Guard
publication Navigation Rules.)
Whistle Any sound signaling appliance capable of producing the

prescribed blast and which complies with the
specifications in Annex III of the International and
Inland Rules. (When your ship was built and the
whistle was installed, all of the specifications listed in
Annex III were considered.)
The term short blast means a blast of about l-second

duration.
The term prolonged blast means a blast of from 4- to

6-second duration.
4-42
Maneuvering and Warning Signals
Rules A vessel of 12 meters or more in length must be provided with a whistle

Regulating and a bell. Vessels that are 100 meters or more in length must also
Sound and Light have a gong. The tone of the gong cannot be confused with the tone of
Signaling the bell. The bell and the gong must comply with the specifications
Equipment listed in Annex III. As with the whistle, these specifications were taken
Required on into account when the ship was outfitted. A light may be used at night
Vessels
for signaling. The light must be, if fitted, an all-round white light,
visible at a minimum range of 5 miles, and must comply with the
provisions of Annex I to the International Rules.
A vessel of less than 12 meters in length will not be required to carry

the signaling equipment described above, but must carry some efficient
means of sound signaling.
Supplemental When vessels are in sight of one another, that is, a power-driven vessel
Light Signals under way, maneuvering as authorized or required by these Rules, they
must indicate that they are maneuvering by the following signals on the
whistle. Any vessel may supplement the whistle signals prescribed by
light signals, repeated as appropriate while the maneuver is being carried
out.
Situation Supplemental Light

Inland: I intend to leve you on my port one flash
side.
Int’l: Altering course to starboard.

Inland: I intend to leave you on my two flashes
starboard side.
Int’l: Altering course to port.

Inland and Int’l: Operating astern three flashes
propulsion.
4-43
Maneuvering and Warning Signals, Continued
Understanding Vessels in sight of one another are approaching each other and either
the Intentions of vessel fails to understand the intentions or actions of the other, or is in
Another Vessel doubt whether sufficient action is being taken by the other vessel to
avoid collision, the vessel in doubt must immediately indicate such
doubt by giving at least five short, rapid blasts on the whistle. Such
signal may be supplemented by a light signal of at least five short, rapid
flashes.
Vessels nearing a bend or an area of a channel or fairway where other

vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction must sound one
prolonged blast. Such signal must be answered with a prolonged blast
by any approaching vessel that may be within hearing around the bend
or behind the intervening obstruction.
Signals The following table lists the required sound signals required between
Required by vessels as stated in rule 34 of the Navigation Rules. The signals are
Rule 34 of made with the ship’s whistle or the VHF radio. When using the VHF
Navigation radio to exchange signals, use the words 1 whistle equals 1 short blast
Rules and the words 2 whistles equal 2 short blasts.
The International Rules do not require a reply from the receiving vessel
except when being overtaken by another vessel, where if in agreement
the overtaken vessel will sound 1 prolonged, 1 short, 1 prolonged, and
1 short blast in that order. The Inland Rules require the receiving
vessel, if in agreement with the sending vessel, to sound the same signal
in return. If, for any cause, the receiving vessel is in doubt of the
proposed maneuver, the receiving vessel will sound 5 short blasts.
Signal Condition Meaning

1 short blast Within l/2 mile of another Inland: I intend to leave you on my
vessel. port side.
When in sight of each Int’l: I am altering my course to
other. starboard.
2 short blasts Within l/2 mile of another Inland: I intend to leave you on my
vessel. starboard side.
When in sight of each Int’l: I am altering my course to
other. port.
3 short blasts Within l/2 mile of another Inland and Int’l: I am operating
vessel. astern propulsion.
4-44
Maneuvering and Warning Signals, Continued
Signal Condition Meaning

2 prolonged Overtaking in narrow Int’l: I intend to overtake you on
blasts followed channel or fairway. your starboard side.
by 1 short blast
2 prolonged Overtaking in narrow Int’l: I intend to overtake you on
blasts followed channel or fairway. your port side.
by 2 short blasts
1 short blast Overtaking. Inland: I intend to overtake you on
your starboard side.
2 short blasts Overtaking. Inland: I intend to overtake you on
your port side.
1 prolonged Leaving a dock or berth. Inland only: I am getting under way
blast from a dock or berth.
Signals Rule 35 of the Navigation Rules gives the signals required by vessels
Required by during periods of restricted visibility. The VHF radio cannot be used to
Rule 35 of send signals as prescribed by rule 35. The following table lists the
Navigation required sound signals required between vessels as stated in rule 35 of
Rules the Navigation Rules. These signals are the same for both the Inland
and International Rules.
Signal Condition Interval

1 prolonged blast Power-driven vessel making way. Not more than
every 2 minutes.
2 prolonged blasts; 2 Power-driven vessel under way but Not more than
seconds apart stopped and making no way. every 2 minutes.
1 prolonged blast Not under command; a vessel restricted in Not more than
followed by 2 short its ability to maneuver, under way, or at every 2 minutes.
blasts anchor; a vessel engaged in fishing
whether under way or at anchor; a vessel
engaged in towing or pushing a vessel
Rapid ringing bell At anchor. Note: In vessels over 100 Not more than
for 5 seconds meters in length, the bell will be sounded every 1 minute.
followed by 1 short, near the bow followed by a 5-second
1 prolonged, and 1 gong signal from the stem.
short blast.
Note: Rule 35 also covers signals for towing and special circumstances. Refer to the
Navigation Rules for complete details.
4-45
Signals Used to Attract Attention
Distress Signals International Rules and Inland Rules on signals to attract attention are
almost identical. If it becomes necessary to attract the attention of
another vessel, any vessel may make light or sound signals that cannot
be mistaken for any signal authorized elsewhere in these rules, or may
direct the beam of its searchlight in the direction of the danger in such a
way as not to embarrass any vessel.
The following paragraph from the International Rules is not included in

the Inland Rules.
Any light to attract the attention of another vessel will be such that it
cannot be mistaken for any aid to navigation. For the purpose of this
rule, the use of high-intensity intermittent or revolving lights, such as
strobe lights, must be avoided.
There is no basis in the rules of the road for the popular notion that the
national ensign, hoisted upside down, is a recognized signal of distress.
No man-of-war would ever subject the colors to this indignity. But if
you should see a private craft with the ensign hoisted upside down, it is
probably in distress. Signals covered by the International Rules and
Inland Rules are as follows (fig. 4-21):
Special The following signals, although not part of the rules of the road, are
Submarine prescribed for submerged submarines in emergency situations involving
Signals rising to periscope depth or surfacing:
1. A white or yellow smoke flare fired into the air from a submarine
indicates the submarine is coming to periscope depth to carry out
surfacing procedures. Ships should clear the immediate vicinity but
should not stop propellers.
2. A red smoke flare fired into the air from a submarine is a signal that
the submarine is in serious trouble and will surface immediately if
possible. Smoke flares of any color, fired into the air at short intervals,
mean that the submarine requires assistance. All ships in the area
should clear the immediate vicinity but stand by to give aid.
4-46
Signals Used to Attract Attention, Continued
Figure 4-21. Distress signals.
4-47
CHAPTER 5
Basics of Time
Introduction In this chapter you will be introduced to the basics of time. You may be
asking yourself what part time plays in the practice of navigation. You
may be surprised to find out how important time actually is. For
example, when we use time to mark the exact second of celestial
observation an error of a few seconds could result in a fix error of many
miles from the correct fix position.
Define the terms apparent and mean solar time.

Match the following kinds of time with their definitions:
a. Greenwich mean time (GMT)
b. Universal time (UT)
c. Local mean time (LMT)
d. Zone time (ZT)
e. Zone description (ZD)
State why standard time zones are used and how they are measured.
Calculate ZD from ship’s longitude.
State the procedures for adjusting a ship’s time and date at sea.
Convert ZT to GMT.
Convert GMT to ZT.
Identify the equivalent values for arc and time.
Convert time to arc and arc to time manually.
Convert arc to time using The Nautical Almanac.
5-l
Major Topics
Topic Page
Apparent Time and Mean Solar Time 5-3
Definition of Terms 5-5
Standard Time Zones 5-6
The Relationship between Time and Longitude 5-7
How to Convert Arc to Time using The Nautical Almanac 5-10
How to Convert Time 5-11
Time and Date for Ships at Sea 5-13
Timepieces 5-14
Chronometer Error 5-15
Documenting Chronometer Error 5-17
How to Determine Daily Rates 5-18
Timing Celestial Observations 5-19
5-2
Apparent Time and Mean Solar Time
Background In this section of the course, we will discuss time in more abstract terms.
Information We will look at how time is measured, some basic terms and definitions
associated with time, time zones and time zone conversions, and how we
convert time to arc and arc to time.
The instrument for measuring time is a timepiece. Earth itself may be

considered as our celestial timepiece. Each complete rotation of Earth on
its axis provides a unit of time that we know as a day. Time is important
to you because of its relationship to longitude. As a Quartermaster, you
will have to understand this relationship to do your job.
The Solar Day The two types of time we will discuss here are:
1. Apparent solar time.

2. Mean solar time.
You probably already know that the motion of the Sun and the stars
around Earth is only apparent--an illusion created by the rotation of the
Earth itself. Solar time is based upon the rotation of the Earth with
respect to the Sun.
The solar day is equal to one rotation of Earth relative to the Sun.
Apparent Time Apparent solar time is measured upon the basis of the apparent motion of
the real Sun (the one you see rise and set every day). This is why we use
the term apparent when we measure time using the apparent Sun. When
the Sun is directly over our local meridian (directly overhead), we say that
it is noon, local apparent time. When it is directly over the meridian that
is 180° (on the opposite side of Earth) away from ours, it is midnight
local apparent time.
If Earth remained stationary in space, all the days reckoned by apparent

time would be of the same length. But Earth travels in an elliptical orbit
around the Sun, and its speed relative to the Sun varies with its position in
its orbit. Consequently, the time required for a complete revolution of
Earth on its axis, although constant as applied to points on Earth, varies
regarding Earth relative to the Sun. The length of a day measured by a
complete revolution of Earth with regard to the Sun, also varies. For this
reason it is impractical for man-made timepieces to keep apparent time;
another solution had to be figured to account for these unequal lengths of
time.
5-3
Apparent and Mean Solar Time, Continued
Figure 5-l Difference in the time of an apparent day.
Mean Solar To remedy the situation created by apparent solar time, mean solar time
Time was introduced. Mean solar time is based on a fictional Sun that is
considered to move at a constant rate of 360° in 24 hours along the
celestial meridian. One mean day is 24 hours in length, each hour
consisting of 60 minutes, and each minute consisting of 60 seconds.
Mean solar time and apparent solar time are nearly equal, but mean solar
time is the time used in everyday life (fig. 5-1). It is the time kept by our
ship’s chronometers and clocks, even our own wristwatch. It is also the
time used in various almanacs that we use for tabulating the positions of
celestial bodies.
Equation of The difference between the apparent day and the mean day is never more
Time than a minute. This difference is cumulative and amounts to as much as a
quarter-hour at certain times of the year (fig. 5-2 ). The difference
between mean and apparent time at any instant is called the equation of
time.
Figure 5-2. Difference of mean time and solar time.
5-4
Definition of Terms
GMT Greenwich mean time (GMT) is the basis or origin of longitude

measurement. It is mean solar time measured with reference to the 0°
meridian of longitude located at Greenwich, England. GMT is of prime
importance to you because much of the time referenced in almanacs
relates to GMT.
UT When we discussed mean solar time we said that it was based on a

fictional Sun that is considered to move at a constant rate of 360° in 24
hours along the celestial meridian. This solved the problem of unequal
day length, but even with mean time there are slight variations. The most
precise time yet developed by man is kept by atomic "clocks," which
operate using cesium beam oscillators. This steady, internationally
adjusted time is called Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). For our
purposes, it is the same as GMT and is the time signal broadcast as radio
time signals.
LMT Local mean time is mean solar time measured with reference to your
meridian; that is, the meridian where you are located.
ZT Zone time is the time you use to set your watch and clocks. Zone time
uses the standard (central) meridians of the various time zones as
reference meridians.
ZD The zone description of a time zone is the adjustment to be applied to that

time zone to determine GMT.
Discussion Although most of the above terms may be new to you, they will all make
sense when we cover the rest of the material in this chapter. In carrying
out the daily routines you will often be required to convert time zones and
work with time calculations. After a bit of practice, the procedures
contained in this chapter will become second nature. In fact, in most
cases you will learn to quickly do time calculation in your head.
Let’s move on to how time is broken down into standard meridians

(zones) and then how that relates to longitude.
5-5
Standard Time Zones
Introduction You can understand how a general foul-up would result if all people set
their watch on their own LMT. As you know, local mean time (LMT)
always differs in different longitudes. In a large city, for example, a
difference of about 9 seconds (9s) LMT occurs between one end of the
city and the other end. If you set your watch on your LMT you would
have to change it every time you went a few blocks on a street running
east and west.
To eliminate this difficulty, standard time zones have been established

within which all clocks are set to the same time, zone time (ZT). A
difference of 1 hour (lh) takes place between one time zone and the next.
Because 1h is 15°, you can see that each time zone comprises 15° of
longitude. Thus resulting in 24 time zones, and 25 time zone
designations.
Figure 5-3. Time zones.
Local mean time along each standard time meridian is zone time for the
entire time zone. Look at figure 5-3. In zone 0, time is exactly the same
within 7 1/2° either side of the standard meridian. Zone time in
navigation is abbreviated ZT.
Daylight savings time is simple zone time set ahead 1 hour to extend the
time of daylight.
5-6
The Relationship between Time and Longitude
Background Ordinarily, we use mean solar time, which is measured by the motion of
Information the mean Sun around the Earth. Let’s suppose your ship is on longitude
60°W. When the Sun is on your longitude or meridian, it is noon. As the
Sun continues to move west and crosses over longitude 61°W, it is noon
there and the time on your meridian is later. In fact it is the time
equivalent of 1° later. But you can’t measure 1° on your watch; you must
convert this 1° of arc to units of time.
To have a standard reference point, every celestial observation is timed

according to the time at the Greenwich meridian. Usually this is
determined by means of the chronometer which is set to GMT. To clarify
the relationship between time and arc, let’s consider a situation in which
you know your longitude exactly at noon, and you want to find out the
time in Greenwich.
Arc to Time When the Sun is on a particular meridian, it is noon at that meridian. In
other words, when the Sun is on the Greenwich meridian (0°), it is noon
by Greenwich time. To make the problem easier, let’s say you’re in 90°W
longitude. It’s noon where you are, so the Sun must also be in 90°W
longitude. So, since leaving Greenwich, the Sun has traveled through 90°
of arc. Because it was 1200 (noon) Greenwich time when the Sun was at
0°, the time at Greenwich now must be 1200 plus the time required for
the Sun to travel through 90° of arc.
The following information provides all the elements of a problem for

converting arc to time. If you know that it takes 24 hours for the Sun to
travel 360° or one complete revolution, it should be easy to find how long
it takes it to go 90°. If the Sun goes 360° in 24 hours, it must go 15° in
1 hour. If it goes 15° in 1 hour, it must go 1° in 4 minutes. Then, to go
90°, it takes 90 x 4 minutes, or 360 minutes, which is the same as 6
hours. Six hours ago it was 1200 Greenwich time; therefore, the time at
Greenwich now must be 1800. You actually have converted 90° of arc to
6 hours of time. In doing so, you discovered the basic relationship
between arc and time. This relationship is stated as 15° of longitude (arc)
equals 1 hour of time.
Your problem could be converting time to arc--the reverse of the one we

worked out. Tables for converting either way are in The Nautical
Almanac and in Bowditch, but if you acquire the following easy methods
of converting, you won’t have to refer to publications. First, you must
memorize the values for arc and time.
5-7
The Relationship Between Time and Longitude, Continued
ArctoTime Use this table to learn the relationship between arc and time.
Relationship
EQUIVALENTS OF ARC AND TIME

Time to Arc Arc to Time
24h = 360° 360° = 24h
lh = 15° 1° = 4m
lm = 15' 1' = 4s
1s = 15"
Converting Time The following is a step by step example of the time to arc conversion
to Arc process:
Step Action Example: Convert

14h 21m 39s units of
time to arc
1. Multiply the hours by 15 to obtain 14h × 15 = 210°
degrees.
2. Divide the minutes by 4 to obtain 21m ÷ 4 = 5° 15'
degrees; multiply the remainder by (remainder lm × 15 = 15')
15 to obtain minutes of arc.
3. Divide the seconds of time by 4 to 39s ÷ 4 = 9' 45"
obtain minutes and minutes of arc, (remainder 3s × 15 = 45”)
or multiply the remainder by 15 to
obtain seconds of arc.
4. Add degrees, minutes, and Answer: 210° 24' 45"
seconds.
Continued on next page
5-8
The Relationship Between Time and Longitude, Continued
Converting Arc The following table shows how to convert arc to time.
to Time
Step Action Example: Convert

215°24' 45" of arc to
time.
1. Divide the degrees by 15 to obtain 215° ÷ 15 = 14h20m
hours, and multiply the remainder
by 4 to obtain minutes of time.
2. Divide the minutes of arc by 15 to 24' ÷ 15 = lm36s

obtain minutes of time, and (remainder 5° × 4 =20m)
multiply the remainder by 4 to
obtain seconds of time.
3. Divide the seconds of arc by 15 to 45" ÷ 15 = 3s
obtain seconds of time. (remainder 9' × 4 = 36s)
4. Add hours, minutes, and seconds. Answer: 14h21m39s
Finding ZD To calculate the ZD for a given position, follow the steps as shown below.
Step Action
1. Divide the longitude of the position by 15°.
2. If the remainder is less than 7°30', the whole number
quotient from step 1 equals the ZD.
3. If the remainder is more than 7°30', the ZD is one more

than the whole number of the quotient.
Example 1: 135° W ÷ 15 = 9 The longitude is west, so the ZD = +9.
Example 2: 062° W ÷ 15 = 4 with a remainder of 2. The remainder is

LESS THAN 7°30" and the longitude is west, so the ZD = +4.
5-9
How to Convert Arc to Time Using The Nautical Almanac
Example In the following example, you will learn how to convert arc to time using
a table from The Nautical Almanac.
Example: Suppose your DR longitude is 142° 41' W, and ZT is 06h 21m

09s. Divide 142° 41' by 15, and you find that your ZD is +10. This
means that your standard meridian must be 150°W. To simplify the
arithmetic, express the 150°W longitude as 149° 60' W. The values are
equal and subtraction is made easier this way.
Standard time meridian 149°60' W

Longitude your meridian 142°41'
Difference of Longitude 7°19'
Using the conversion of arc to time excerpt shown in figure 5-4, change
7° 19' to time, and you get 00h 29m 16s. This means that LMT at your
meridian differs from ZT by 00h 29m 16s.
Figure 5-4. Excerpt from The Nautical Almanac.
5-10
How to Convert Time
Converting ZT In our previous discussion of ZD, we said that each standard meridian
to GMT (those meridians exactly divisible by 15) is 1 hour apart and that each of
these standard meridians is identified by a number and letter sign. To
convert ZT to GMT, or GMT to ZT, the first thing you must determine is
the correct ZD. ZT differs from GMT by the ZD.
Rule: When you convert ZT to GMT, you must apply the ZD to your ZT
using the proper sign, minus (-) if you are in east longitude, plus (+) if in
west longitude.
Example 1: Assume that you are in longitude 105°E, ZT is 16h 23m 14s,
and you want to find GMT.
Step Action
1. Find your ZD. 105 ÷ 15 = 7.
2. Determine the sign of the correction. You are in east
longitude, so the sign is negative.
3. Apply the correction. Your ZD is -7. The minus sign
means that you subtract ZD from ZT to obtain GMT.
ZT 16h 23m 14s
ZD -7
GMT 09h 23m 14s
Example 2: Assume you are in longitude 75°W, ZT is 07h 13m 57s, and
you want to find GMT.
Step Action
1. Find your ZD. 75 ÷ 15 = 5. Therefore, you are in
zone 5.
2. Determine the sign of the correction. You are in west
longitude, so the sign is positive.
3. Apply the correction. Your ZD is +5, so add the
correction to ZT to obtain GMT.
ZT 7h 13m 57s
+5
GMT 12h 13m 57s
5-11
How to Convert Time, Continued
Converting When you convert GMT to ZT, you must apply the ZD to your ZT using
GMT to ZT the opposite sign; plus (+) if in east longitude, minus (-) if in west
longitude.
Example 1: Assume that you are in longitude 156° 58'E, GMT is Olh
00m 00s on 01 July. You want to find ZT.
Step Action
1. Find your ZD. Divide 156° 58' by 15 and you get 10.
2. Determine the sign of the correction. You are in east
longitude, so the sign is minus (-10).
3. Apply the correction using the opposite
GMT 01h 00m 00s

ZD +10
ZT 11h 00m 00s
Example 2: Assume that you are in longitude 145° 00' W and GMT is
16h 00m 00s on 30 December. You want to find ZT.
Step Action
1. Find your ZD. Divide 145° 00' by 15 and you get 10.
2. Determine the sign of the correction. You are in west
longitude so the sign is plus (+10).
3. Since you are going from GMT to ZT, apply the
correction using the opposite sign (-10).
GMT 16h 00m 00s

ZD -10
ZT 06h 00m 00s
5-12
Time and Date for Ships at Sea
Ship’s Clocks As your ship travels east or west at sea and passes between one time zone
and the next, it is convenient for you (and everyone else on board) to
adjust the ship’s clocks to the time zone where you are actually located.
As you pass from one time zone to the next, ZT changes by 1 hour. But
do you advance the clocks 1 hour, or do you set them back 1 hour? The
rule is:
If you are traveling towards the west, the new ZT will be 1 hour earlier;
therefore, you must set the ship’s clocks back 1 hour.
If you are traveling towards the east, ZT will be 1 hour later; therefore,
you must set the ship’s clocks ahead 1 hour.
The ship’s navigator or quartermaster should notify the commanding

officer when these changes become necessary. Do NOT, in any case, ever
advance or retard the ship’s chronometer.
International So far we’ve been talking about advancing or retarding clocks to account
Date Line for time zone changes as we travel over the oceans. Suppose your ship is
in the Pacific Ocean traveling west. As you continue to travel west, you
are setting your clocks back 1 hour each time you enter a new time zone.
Eventually, you will lose 24 hours in a circumnavigation of the Earth.
Because of this, a method for adjusting for the day lost (or gained when
you were traveling east) is necessary and is accomplished by the
International Date Line, which follows the 180th meridian. The rule for
changing date when crossing the International Date Line is:
When traveling east and crossing the International Date Line, you
compensate by retarding the date 1 day.
When traveling west and crossing the International Date Line, you
compensate by advancing the date 1 day.
Note: The date change is in the opposite direction to the hour changes
you made as you passed into each new time zone. This date change is
made by every vessel that crosses the International Date Line, regardless
of the length of the voyage.
The International Date Line is used as a convenience just like time zones.
Changing the date should take place at a convenient time that is least
disruptive to the operation of your ship.
5-13
Timepieces
Introduction The quartz chronometer is the main source for keeping shipboard time
(fig. 5-5). A chronometer is like any watch except that it keeps time to a
higher degree of accuracy. For detailed information on the components
and upkeep of shipboard chronometers, refer to NSTM, chapter 252.
Error and Rate Even a chronometer cannot keep exact time indefinitely. Sooner or later
the chronometer time gradually begins to draw away from GMT (UTC).
The difference between chronometer time and GMT, at any instant, is
called chronometer error. Error direction is identified with a sign or
letter (+ or F = Fast) or (- or S = Slow) to indicate that the chronometer is
either fast or slow in relation to the correct GMT.
Chronometer rate, on the other hand, is the amount the instrument gains
or loses in a specified time.
Figure 5-5. Quartz chronometer.
5-14
Chronometer Error
Introduction Inasmuch as chronometers are never reset aboard ship, an accumulated

error may become quite large. Such an error is unimportant, though, if an
accurate record is kept of the error. The most accurate check on the
chronometer and other timepieces is by comparing the radio time signal
broadcast by radio station WWV and other stations listed in Radio
Navigational Aids (Pub No. 117) with the chronometer time.
Time Ticks Since 1 January 1973, the broadcast time signals (UTC) have differed
from GMT by amounts up to ±0.7s. The difference arises because the
times given in the navigational tables depend on the variable rate of
rotation of the Earth, while the broadcast time signals are now based on
an atomic time scale. Step adjustments of exactly 1 second are made to
the time signals as required (normally at 24th on December 31 and June
30) so that the difference between the time signals and GMT may not
exceed 0.9s. For those who require GMT to an accuracy better than 1s, a
correction (DUT) is coded into the transmitted time signal. GMT accurate
to 0.1s is obtained by applying DUT to the transmitted time signal; that is,
GMT = UTC + DUT
Naval radio stations transmit time signals (on seven different frequencies)
for the 5 minutes immediately preceding certain hours GMT. The DUT
correction is given in Morse code in the final 9-second pause prior to the
long dash.
Each second in the time signal is marked by the beginning of a dash; the
end of the dash has no significance. Beginning at 5 minutes before the
hour, every second is transmitted except the 51st second of the 1 st minute,
52nd second of the 2nd minute, 53rd second of the 3rd minute, 54th
second of the 4th minute, 29th second of each minute, the last 4 seconds.
of each of the first 4 minutes, and the last 9 seconds of the last minute.
The hour signal after the 0-second break (59m 60s) consists of a longer
dash than the others. For clarity, the system of dashes are shown
graphically in the accompanying table on the next page.
5-15
Chronometer Error, Continued
Minute Second
50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60
- - - - -
55 - - - - -
56 - - - - - -
57 - - - - - -
58 -
59 - (+DUT)
Other Time Tick All other time signal transmissions, for example, WWV (Ft. Collins,
Available Colo.), WWVH (Honolulu), CHU (Ottawa, Can.), are broadcast on 2.5, 5,
10, 15, 20, and 25 megahertz and consist of dashes at the beginning of
each second (commencing with the zero second of each minute). DUT is
coded into the first 16 seconds by doubling of the dashes in seconds. 1 to
8 for +0.1s to +0.8s, and in seconds 9 to 16 for -0.1s to -0.8s. For
example: If DUT = +0.4s, the dashes for seconds 1, 2, 3, 4 would be
double; if DUT = -0.6s, the dashes for seconds 9. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
would be double.
The upcoming time is announced during the interruption of the audio

frequency. The exact time is taken the instant the audio frequency is
resumed. An example of the voice announcement might be: "THIS IS
RADIO STATION WWV. At the tone, the time will be 8 hours, 50
minutes, coordinated universal time."
5-16
Documenting Chronometer Error
Navigational Information concerning each chronometer (error, successive daily rate, and
Timepiece Rate average daily rate) must be recorded in the Navigational Timepiece Rate
Book Book, NAVSEA 4270. (See fig. 5-6.) Each page of NAVSEA 4270 can
accommodate the records of a maximum of three chronometers for 1
month.
How to Check Use the following table to check and record chronometer error. You will
and Record need pencil, paper, and a comparing stopwatch handy.
Error
Step Action
1. Obtain a time tick signal from the communications center.
2. Determine from the time tick the next minute that will be
sounded; write this value down. When the signal is sounded,
start the comparing watch.
3. At the exact moment the comparing watch marks on the minute,
note the exact time for chronometer 1. Write down the time for
chronometer 1.
4. Compare the two time values and determine the difference of
time. It is always preferable to change the larger time value to
ease addition or subtraction. In our example, the comparing
watch time is the larger value and equals 1 lh 15m 00s. This
converts to 11h 14m 60s.
Example: Comparing watch llh 14m 60s GMT

Chrono time - llh 14m 43s GMT
Chrono error 0h 00m17s
5. Record results in the Timepiece Rate Book, compare the results
with the previous day and compute the difference, assign
a - value if the chronometer is slower; assign a + value if the
chronometer is faster.
6. Repeat steps l-5 for the remaining chronometers, replacing
chronometer 1 with the chronometer you are comparing.
New Time At the time of publishing of this TRAMAN, the use of GPS time as the
Source single source reference for setting ships time has not been approved.
However, the use of GPS time signals may be approved in the near future.
Check with your Type Commander Staff Navigator for guidance on this
matter.
5-17
How to Determine Daily Rates
Figure 5-6. Excerpt from the Timepiece Rate Book.
Average Daily Example: a chronometer whose rate is +1.5 seconds will gain 1.5 seconds
Rate (ADR) every 24 hours. Chronometer rate is usually expressed as seconds and
tenths of seconds per day and is labeled gaining or losing. Chronometer
rate is determined by comparing errors obtained several days apart and
dividing the difference by the number of days between readings.
Correct Chrono.
Date GMT (UTC) Chrono. time Error rate
17 July 11h 30m 00s 11h 32m 00s 02m 00s
18 July 11h 30m 00s 11h 32m 01s 02m 01s +ls
Average daily rate (ADR) is found by using the formula:
(error on last day observed) - (error on first day observed)

ADR=
(date of last observation) - (date of first observation)
ADR formula for a 3 l-day month. A navigator desiring to determine the

chronometer rate compares the chronometer directly with the Washington,
D.C., (NSS) 1200 radio time signal on different days. On the first day the
chronometer reads fast by 9 minutes 3.0 seconds and on the last day it
reads fast by 9 minutes 53.5 seconds. ADR is found as follows:
ADR =(F) 09m 53.5s - (F) 09m 3.0s 50.5s diff = = 1.68s/gaining
(31) - (1) 30 days
No attempt should be made to determine chronometer error closer than

l/2 (0.5) second. Average daily rates, therefore, are somewhat a more
accurate measurement of the chronometer’s performance than are the daily
checks because, in the former method, any daily observational errors are
averaged out.
5-18
Timing Celestial Observations
Background The importance of obtaining the exact GMT (UTC) of every celestial
observation was mentioned earlier. Obviously, it would be impractical if
every time you took a sight on the bridge wing, you had to dash into the
charthouse and look at the chronometer. Every observation, consequently,
is timed the instant it is made, either by a stopwatch or by a comparing
watch.
Techniques There are several methods available for timing observations. In this text
we will cover the preferred method only. The preferred method consists
of one person taking observations and another person marking the exact
time of the observation. The person marking the time will need to use a
comparing watch set to GMT from a time tick or set to chronometer time.
The stopwatch can be started exactly on some convenient minute or hour

of the chronometer. If its rate is known to be small, there is no necessity
for working out any chronometer minus watch (C-W) computation,
provided the interval during which observations are taken is short. For a
single observation, the stopwatch can be stopped (or, reversing the
procedure, the watch may be started) when the sight is taken, but seldom
is only one observation made. For this reason, the stopwatch must usually
be read like any other watch.
A comparing watch can be set to the chronometer time and can be used to
keep time if its rate is also small. Some navigators, though, prefer to
keep their watches on zone time; hence, observation time must be
computed. It doesn’t matter whether computation is made before or after
the observation. It is essential to have the interval as short as possible
between time of sight and time of computation. Otherwise, enough time
may elapse for the watch to gain or lose a sufficient amount to cause an
error. For better accuracy and to avoid careless errors, it’s a good idea to
make C-W computations both before and after a round of sights.
5-19
Timing Celestial Observations, Continued
Techniques The C-W computation is watch time (WT) to the half-second subtracted
from chronometer time (CT). If WT is greater, 12 hours must be added
to CT. The C-W is never greater than 12 hours because both watch and
chronometer are graduated only to 12. Now that you know the value of
C-W, it is necessary only to add this value to the WT of any observation
to find the correct CT, then apply chronometer error (CE), and you have
the GMT (UTC) of the observation.
Examples To work an example, assume that you have a chronometer whose error
(CE) is -7m 4s; in other words, it is 7m 4s behind GMT (UTC). Your
watch is set to ZT and reads 5h 26m 42s when the chronometer reads 10h
19m 00s. First, find the C-W. It’s WT subtracted from CT.
CT 10h 19m 00s

WT 5h 76m 42s
C-W 4h 52m 18s
You step out on the bridge with our sextant and watch, and sight on Sirius
at WT 5h 34m 21s, date 15 October, longitude 101°34.2'E. What should
be the GMT (UTC) of this sight? Applying the formula
CT = WT + C-W, we find:
WT 5h 34m 21s
CE 7m 04s
GMT 10h 33m 43s
Now, let’s consider the date 15 October at 101°34.2'E. Is it the same day
at Greenwich? Let’s see. The ZT is 5h 34m 21s. The ZD is -7. Subtract
ZD from ZT to get GMT (UTC). You can’t subtract 7 from 5, but 5h on
15 October is the same as 29th on 14 October, and 7 from 29 is 22.
Therefore, 1 Oh 33m 43s is not a.m. on 15 October, but p.m. on 14
October. From this computation, it follows that GMT (UTC) is 22h 33m
43s on 14 October.
In problems like these, you must check the date carefully every time to
avoid a 12-hour error such as the one we encountered just now.
5-20
Chapter 6
Introduction to Celestial Navigation
Introduction In modem day navigation, we have grown dependent on advanced satellite

navigation systems (GPS) to accommodate our day-to-day navigation
needs. However, celestial navigation is still very much a part of a day’s
work in navigation. You may ask yourself why we still use celestial
navigation with all the high tech equipment available to find the ship’s
position. The answer is simple. In wartime, there is always a possibility
that satellite tracking stations and satellites themselves may be knocked
out. As a Quartermaster, you must make every attempt to hone your
celestial skills.
In this chapter, you will learn the basics of celestial navigation. The
information contained in this chapter will help you to understand the more
complex topics contained in chapter 9.
Describe the celestial sphere.

Describe the Celestial Coordinate System.
Use The Nautical Almanac.
Determine the LMT of sunrise, sunset, and twilight.
Determine LMT of moonrise and moonset.
Determine LHA of Aries, selected stars, and star time using The
Nautical Almanac, Pub 249, and The Rude Starfinder.
Topic Page
Earth and the Celestial Sphere 6-2
Understanding the Celestial Coordinate System 6-3
Using The Nautical Almanac 6-5
How to Determine the Time of Sunrise, Sunset, and 6-6
Twilight
How to Determine the Time of Moonrise and Moonset 6-8
How to Determine Selected Stars Using Pub 249 6-9
How to Determine Selected Stars Using The Rude Starfinder 6-12
6-1
Earth and the Celestial Sphere
Introduction As you know, Earth is actually an oblate spheroid, just as with chart
projections, we consider Earth a perfect sphere for celestial observations.
Celestial Sphere Simply stated, the celestial sphere is an imaginary sphere that stretches out
to the ends of the universe. At the very center of the celestial sphere is
Earth. As you know, Earth rotates on its axis from west to east. Because
of this rotation, celestial bodies appear to be in motion, rising in the east
then crossing over the observer’s meridian and going on to set in the west.
Figure 6-1. Celestial sphere revolving about Earth.
Celestial Poles, The celestial poles are located by extending Earths north and south poles
Equator, and (fig. 6-1). The celestial equator (also known as the equinoctial) is
Meridians formed by extending Earth’s equator out onto the celestial sphere.
Meridians are formed by hour circles that are similar to great circles. The
celestial meridian is formed by extending the Greenwich meridian out
onto the celestial sphere.
6-2
Understanding the Celestial Coordinate System
Components The Celestial Coordinate System is very similar to the Terrestrial

Coordinate System. Use the following table and figure 6-2 to become
familiar with the components of the Celestial Coordinate System.
Term Description
Celestial The celestial equator is the point of reference for
Equator measuring declination.
Declination Declination can be thought of as the celestial
equivalent to latitude. Declination is expressed in the
same manner as latitude, measured north or south
from 0° through 90°.
First Point of The first point of Aries can be thought of as the
Aries reference point for measuring angles for stars and
planets (celestial bodies).
Hour Circles The great circles that encircle the celestial sphere in
the same manner that meridians of longitude encircle
Earth. The major difference is that hour circles are
measured from 0° westward through 360°. As you
know, longitude on the other hand is measured east
or west from 0° through 180°. Hour circles move
with each celestial body. The 0° meridian is called
the Greenwich meridian.
Greenwich GHA is the angular measurement of a celestial body
Hour Angle measured westward 0° through 360° from the
(GHA) Greenwich meridian.
Local Hour LHA of a celestial body is measured westward from
Angle (LHA) 0° through 360° from the observers meridian to the
hour circle of the celestial body.
Sidereal Hour The SHA is the hour circle of a star or planet
Angle (SHA) measured westward from the first point of Aries from
0° through 360°.
6-3
Understanding the Celestial Coordinate System, Continued
To help you visualize the celestial coordinate system, always imagine

Earth at the center of the celestial sphere. These facts and figure 6-2
should help you visualize the celestial coordinate system.
Facts
The first point of Aries is the starting point for all celestial
observations.
Celestial bodies are in constant motion (that’s why it was stressed in
chapter 5 that the exact time of a celestial observation must be
recorded).
The use of GHA associates all hour circles of any celestial body with
the Greenwich meridian on Earth. This allows all celestial bodies to
be positioned at any moment on the celestial sphere.
The GHA of Aries will align Aries with the Greenwich meridian.
Figure 6-2. The celestial coordinate system.
6-4
Using The Nautical Almanac
Format The Nautical Almanac is laid out in what are called daily pages. Each
daily page contains astronomical data for 3 days. The left-hand pages
contain values for GHA and Dec. (declination) for Aries, Venus, Mars,
Jupiter, Saturn, and the 57 navigational stars. The right-hand pages
contain values for GHA, Dec., sunrise, sunset, moonrise, moonset, the
time of meridian passage for the Sun, and equation of time.
The inside cover contains altitude correction tables for the Sun, stars, and
planets, and values for the dip of the horizon correction. After the daily
pages are instructions for sight reduction, arc to time conversion table, and
interpolation tables, and on the inside back cover are altitude correction
tables for the Moon.
Figure 6-3 contains excerpts from The Nautical Almanac. As we work

through practical examples in celestial navigation, you will learn how to
use the information in The Nautical Almanac.
6-5
Figure 6-3. Example of The Nautical Almanac format.
6-6
How to Determine the Time of Sunrise, Sunset, Moonrise,

Moonset, and Twilight
Strip Forms and OPNAV Navigation Strip Forms have evolved from a need to have a
the Navigation standard method of working celestial problems. The strip forms are
Workbook located in the back of the Navigation Workbook (OPNAV 3530/l) and
they are designed to work with the individual pages of the Navigation
Workbook. Every time a celestial observation is taken that fixes the ship’s
position, you must keep a record of the results in the Navigation
Workbook.
How to We will learn how to determine the time of sunrise by using a practical
Determine the example. Use the table on the next page and figure 6-4 to work the strip
Time of Sunrise form.
Figure 6-4. Excerpt from The Nautical Almanac.
6-7
How to Determine the Time of Sunrise, and Sunset..., Continued
Example In our example, we will assume that at 1500 on 1 Sep 94 our training ship
is located at 36° 14.0' N 069° 26' W, on course 090° T at a speed of 10
knots. Problem: find the time of sunset.
OPNAV 3530/38 (4-73) Step Action Completed Strip Form

SUNSET/RISE
DR Lat 1. From the Nautical Almanac DR Lat 36° 14'N

note the time of tab sunset for
the latitude closest to your
current position.
Tab Interval 2. Enter the interval between the Tab Interval 5°
two latitudes closest to your
DR Lat.
Lat Interval 3. Enter the time difference Lat Interval 5 min
between the two latitudes.
Lat Diff 4. Enter the difference between Lat Diff 1°14'
your DR Lat. and the lower tab
latitude.
Corr Table I 5. Go to Correction Table I in the Corr Table I 1 min
Nautical Alm., follow the
instructions at the bottom of the
table to determine the time
correction.
Tab LMT 6. Enter the time of the tabulated Tab LMT 1826
lat., use the tab lat that is lower
than your DR Lat.
Corr LMT 7. Add the time correction. Corr LMT 1827
DR λ 8. ‘Enter the DR Longitude. DR λ 069° 26'
STD Mer 9. Enter the value for the time STD Mer 075°
zone that the ship is keeping, in
this case +5R express in
degrees, 5 x 15 = 75.
d λ(arc) 10. Find the lat difference between d λ (arc) 5° 34'
75° and DRλ 069°26'.
6-8
How to Determine the Time of Sunrise, and Sunset,..., Continued
d λ (time) 11. Enter the Arc to Time d λ (time) 22m 16s

Conversion table on the left
column, finding the time value Round off to closest
for 5° (20m) and then enter the minute.
right column for 34' (2m 16s)
and add the values together for
the total time correction.
LMT 12. LMT = Corr LMT + or - Corr LMT 1827
d λ (time) d λ (time) -22
IF... THEN... LMT = 1802
DRλ is less Subtract dλ
than STD Mer (time) from
Corr LMT
DRλ is greater Add dλ (time)
than STD Mer to Corr LMT
How to To find the time of twilight, use the same steps you use to find the time
Determine the of sunrise or sunset except use the tab values from the twilight column. It
Time of Twilight is helpful in some operations to know the exact time of twilight.
Finding the Use strip form 3530/39 to find the time of moonrise or moonset. The
Time of procedure is exactly the same as the one used to find the time of SR or
Moonrise or SS except that an additional correction must be made from table II of the
Moonset Nautical Almanac. A correction for the time difference between tab LMT
and the preceding or following day must be applied from table II. Simple
instructions for this correction can be found at the bottom of table II.
6-9
How to Determine Star Time and Selected Stars Using

Pub 249 Vol I (Selected Stars)
Example Determining star time and selected stars for morning or evening
observations is simple. The process involves finding the time of sunrise
for morning observation or sunset for evening observations. Then you
find the LHA of Aries for the time of star time and record the data for the
seven stars on a worksheet.
Rule: Add 30 minutes to the time of sunset to determine evening star

time, subtract 45 minutes from sunrise to determine morning star time.
Example: The ship is located at 36°14.0' N 069°14' W, the date is 01

Sep 91. The ship is on course 090°T and is keeping +5R time zone.
Discussion Although there are other methods of determining which navigational stars
are available for observations, using Pub 249 is the most widely used
method. In step 10, you are directed to record the values for Hc (height
computed) and Zn (the azimuth angle, or the true direction to point the
sextant towards) on a worksheet. At the time of publication, there is NOT
a standard worksheet available for use. A recommended format is
supplied on page 11. Use a PC word processor to reproduce this
worksheet locally.
Use figure 6-5 on the following page along with the example OPNAV
form to find selected stars.
6-10
Figure 6-5. Excerpts from The Nautical Almanac.
6-11
How to Determine Star Time and Selected Stars Using

Pub 249 Vol I (Selected Stars), Continued
Step Action Result

1. Determine the time of sunset. 1841
2. Add 30 minutes to the time of sunset (star 1911
time). Find and note the DR position for
1911. For our example we will use
36°14.0'N 069°04'W.
3. Find GMT of star time 1911. Remember 00h 11m
to find GMT apply the ZD to LMT. 02 Sep 91
4. From the left-hand pages of the Nautical 339°39'.7
Almanac, find the GHA of Aries.
5. From the Increments and Corrections pages 2° 45'.5
m
find the page with 11 and then find the
value for Aries for 00 seconds.
6. Find the total GHA of Aries by adding the 339°39'.7

results from step 4 and 5 together. +2°45'.5
Remember to carry over 1 whole degree 342°25'.2
whenever the total minutes are greater than
60. Ex. 85 - 60 = 25 carry 1°.
7. Find the LHA of Aries by subtracting west 342°25'.2
longitude, or adding east longitude. -069°04'.5
273°21'.2
8. Round off DR lat. and LHA Aries to the DR lat. = 36° N
closest °. LHA Aries 273°
9. Enter Pub 249 on the page for 36° N.
10. Record the values for Hc and Zn for each See example
star for LHA Aries for 273° on a worksheet on next
worksheet. page.
6-12
Pub 249 Selected Stars Worksheet
Find the LHA of Aries for star time, use Pub 249 for closest latitude and
LHA Aries, record the results.
Name of Star Hc Zn Observed Hc Observed Zn GMT of

Observation
DENEB 60 30 060
ALTAIR 54 48 134
NUNKI 26 53 169
ANTARES 23 02 205
ARCTURUS 35 49 269
ALKAID 41 13 308
KOCHAB 44 56 343
Map the Zn of each selected star as it relates to the ship’s head just prior
to taking sights (celestial observations).
6-13
How to Determine Selected Stars using The Rude Starfinder
Components The Rude Starfinder is made up of a plastic star base showing stars of the
northern hemisphere on one side, and stars of the southern hemisphere on
the other side, and 10 transparent templates. Nine templates printed in
blue, with each template covering 10° of latitude, labeled 5°, 15°, 25°,
and so on, plus a tenth template printed in red showing meridian angle
and declination for use in the plotting of planets. Each latitude template
has a family of altitude curves at 5° intervals from the horizon to 80°.
From these curves, you can determine the height of a star or planet. A
second family of curves, also at 5° intervals, indicate the azimuth (true
bearing) of a star or planet. The north-south azimuth line represents the
celestial meridian. The star base, templates, and a set of instructions are
housed in a leatherette case.
Uses The starfinder has four purposes: to identify an unknown star, to select
several stars for observation, to plot planets for observation, and identify
a star’s magnitude. For example, when taking sights for evening stars,
you shoot a star or planet that is not part of your selected stars list
obtained from Pub 249. You can identify the celestial body using the
starfinder. This proves to be extremely useful when overcast weather
conditions exists.
Using the Follow the steps in the table to create a list of selected stars for
Starfinder observation. Refer to the instructions that are included with the star
finder to identify an unknown body.
Step Action
1. Find the LHA of Aries for star time, follow steps 1 through 7
on pages 6-12.
2. Place the template for the latitude closest to the DR latitude on
the star base.
3. Move the pointer to the correct LHA.

4. Select eight stars that provide 360° of coverage at intervals of
about 20°.
5. Record the height and azimuth of each star. It will be helpful
to list stars in the order of increasing azimuth.
Example: Vega 019° T, Arcturus 043° T, and so on.
6-14
Chapter 7
Tides and Currents
Introduction The ability to determine the height of a tide or velocity of a current is

necessary for the safe navigation of any vessel. There are many
methods of determining this data. The Quartermaster uses the Tide
Tables and Tidal Current Tables that you were introduced to in Chapter
4. In this chapter, you will learn the actual mechanics of determining
tide heights and current velocities.
Define the following terms associated with the rising and falling tide
phenomena:
a. High tide or high water; low tide or low water
b. Range of tide and the duration of rise and fall
c. Stand
Define the terms spring tide and neap tide.
Match the three types of tides listed below with their characteristics:
a. Semidiurnal
b. Diurnal
c. Mixed
Match the following terms associated with tidal reference planes with
their definitions:
a Charted depth
b. Mean high water (MHW)
c. Mean low water (MLW)
d. Mean lower low water (MLLW)
e. Mean range of tide
Extract the following information from tables 1 through 3 of the
Tide Tables:
a. Reference station
b. Subordinate station time and height differences
c. Correction factor for height at any time
7-1
Calculate the height of tide at any time for any station listed in the
Tide Tables.
Plot tidal information on a tide graph.
Match the following terms with their meanings:
a. Tidal and nontidal currents
b. Flood and ebb
c. Slack water
d. Duration of flood and ebb
e. Set and speed of current
f. Rotary current
Identify the general features of tidal currents.
Calculate the times of minimum and maximum current and slack
water at a given location, as well as the average direction of the
current.
Calculate the speed of the current at any time for any location.
Topic Page
Effect of the Sun and Moon on Tides 7-4

Types of Tides and Reference Planes 7-5
Tide Tables 7-6
How to Determine the Height of Tide 7-7
How to Graph Tide Data 7-12
Tidal Currents 7-16
Tidal Current Tables 7-18
Current Calculations 7-19
How to Graph Tidal Currents 7-23
7-2
Introduction to Tides
Background Whenever your ship enters or leaves port, one of your most important
Information tasks will be to calculate how much water will be available along your
route of transit. The importance of accurate tide calculations cannot be
overemphasized. If your ship attempts to pass beneath a bridge without
adequate vertical clearance, you could lose the ship’s mast. If you pass
over a shoal with an insufficient depth of water, your ship will probably
go aground, losing sonar dome, rudder, and propellers. All navigational
charts reference the depth soundings in mean low water.
Definition Tide is the vertical rise and fall of the ocean level caused by the
gravitational forces between Earth and the Moon, and Earth and the Sun.
Generally speaking, these interacting forces between the planets cause
the tides to rise and fall twice daily, this is known as a tidal day. The
period of one high and one low is referred to as a tidal cycle.
Terms Associ- Use the following table to learn the meanings of terms that are
ated with Tides associated with tides.
Term Definition
High tide or high The maximum height of the water resulting from the
water (HW) rising tide.
Low tide or low The minimum height of the water resulting from the
water (LW) outgoing tide.
Duration of rise The period of time measured in hours and minutes that
and fall it takes the tide to go from low water to high water.
Range of tide The distance between HW and LW.
Stand A brief period where no rise or fall occurs; this occurs
when the tide reaches its maximum or minimum level.
Mean high water The average height of all high-tide water levels,
(MHW) measured over a 19-year period.
Mean low water The average height of all low-tide levels, observed
(MLW) over a 19-year period.
Mean lower low The average of the lower of the low water levels,
water (MLW) observed over a period of 19-years. This is the
reference plane currently used on almost all charts
covering U.S. waters as the basis of measurement of
charted depths and height of tide.
7-3
Effect of the Sun and Moon on Tides
Spring and As previously mentioned, tides that occur on Earth result from both
Neap Tides solar and lunar influences. When these two bodies are in line with
Earth, as shown in figure 7-1, their combined effect causes high tides to
be higher than average and low tides to be lower than average. These
types of tides are referred to as spring tides (and has nothing to do with
the season of the year).
Figure 7-1. Spring tides occur when influences of the

Sun and the Moon act together.
When the direction of the Sun and the Moon are 90° apart, as when the
Moon is in the first and last quarter, the gravitational effect of the Sun
counteracts that of the Moon enough that both high and low tides are
lower than normal. These types of tides are referred to as neap tides.
Figure 7-2. Relationship of terms used when measuring heights and

depths.
7-4
Types of Tides and Reference Planes
Semidiurnal, According to the characteristics of the tidal pattern occurring at a

Diurnal, and particular place, tides are classified as semidiurnal, diurnal, or mixed.
Mixed Tides
In semidiurnal tides, there are two high and two low tides each tidal
day, and they occur at fairly regular intervals. Usually, there are only
relatively small variations in the height of any two successive high or
low waters. Tides on the Atlantic coast of the United States are
representative of this pattern.
In diurnal tides, there is only one high and one low tide each tidal day.
The water levels on succeeding days usually do not vary a great deal.
In the United States, diurnal tides occur along the northern shore of the
Gulf of Mexico.
In mixed tides, the tidal pattern is characterized by wide variations in

heights of successive high and low waters. There are usually two high
and two low waters each day, but occasionally the tide may become
diurnal. In the United States, mixed tides occur along the Pacific Coast,
Alaska, and Hawaii. If information for water depths, heights, elevations
of topographical features, aids to navigation, bridge clearances, and so
forth are to be meaningful when printed on nautical charts, standard
reference planes for their measurements must be used. For this reason,
standard reference planes for these measurements have been established.
Generally speaking, heights and elevations are given on a chart in

reference to a standard high-water plane, while heights of tide and
charted depths of water are given with respect to a standard low-water
plane (see fig. 7-2). The charted depth is simply the vertical distance
from the low-water reference plane to the ocean bottom; it’s the depth
figure you see printed on nautical charts. The charted height is the
vertical distance above the water measured from the high-water
reference plane.
The mean range of tide is the vertical distance between the high water
and low-water reference planes used, and represents the average range
of tide at a given location. You should remember that the water level
will sometimes be below the reference plane. Put another way,
sometimes the actual depth of water can be less than the charted
depth. You will recognize this situation because there will be a minus
sign (-) placed before the height of tide shown in the Tide Tables. In
this case, you subtract the value of the height of tide from the charted
depth to find the actual depth of water.
7-5
Tide Tables
Layout Tide Tables are published annually by the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration. They are published in four volumes:
Europe and West Coast of Africa (including the Mediterranean Sea);
East Coast of North and South America (including Greenland); West
Coast of North and South America (including the Hawaiian Islands);
Central and Western Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean.
The Tide Tables contain seven tables; each are briefly explained below:
Table 1 contains the predicted times and heights of high and low waters
for each day of the year at a number of places called reference stations.
All times stated in this table are for standard time. When using daylight
savings time, you must remember to add 1 hour.
Table 2 contains tidal difference information for heights and times at a

number of places called subordinate stations. This information is listed
in geographical order; each subordinate station is given a number, its
location is described, and its position is given to the nearest minute.
The data given for the subordinate station are applied to the predictions
at a specified reference station to obtain the tidal information for the
subordinate station. You’ll see how this works in the example problems
that follow.
Table 3 contains information used for finding the approximate height of

the tide at any time between high and low water. This table also
contains instructions for plotting tide information using a graphical
method. The graphical method is handy for those occasions when the
height of tide is required for a number of times on a given day.
Table 4 is a sunrise-sunset table listing LMT of the Sun’s upper limb for
every 5th day of the year.
Table 5 provides an adjustment to convert the LMT found in table 4 to

zone or standard time.
Table 6 gives the zone time of moonrise and moonset for each day of
the year at certain places.
Table 7 is a conversion of feet to meters table.
7-6
How to Determine the Height of Tide
Procedure Finding the height of the tide is relatively simple. In the following
example, we will calculate the height of tide at the George Washington
Bridge on the Hudson River, NY. The time desired is 1100 standard
time, 8 September 1993. To make our job easier, we will use OPNAV
strip form 3530/40 HT OF TIDE.
OPNAV 3530/40 (4-73) Step Action Completed Strip

HT OF TIDE
Form
Date 1. Enter the desired date. 08 SEPT
Location 2. Enter the location. Find George George

Washington Bridge in the alphabetical Washington Bridge
index in the back of the Tide Tables.
The subordinate station number is
found to be #1561 in table 2.
Time 3. Enter the desired time. 1100
Ref Station 4. The reference station is found by first New York

finding our subordinate station
(George Washington Bridge) #1561 in
table 2, and then looking in the center
of the DIFFERENCE column and
following it upward (as shown in fig.
7-4) to the line entitled “on New York
p. 56."
Figure 7-3 is an excerpt from table 2.

The data for steps 5, 6, 7, and 8 are
found by inspecting the times and
heights differences for 8 Sep for the
George Washington Bridge.
7-7
How to Determine the Height of Tide, Continued

HT OF TIDE Form
HW Time Diff 5. Under the DIFFERENCES column +0 50
find the value for high-water time.
LW Time Diff 6. Under the DIFFERENCES column +0 46
find the value for low-water time.
HW Ht Diff 7. Under the DIFFERENCES column *0.84
find the value for high-water height.
LW Ht Diff 8. Under the DIFFERENCES column *0.85
find the value for low-water height.
Figure 7-3. Excerpt from table 2 of the Tide Tables.
7-8

HT OF TIDE
Form
Ref Sta 9. From the reference station (see fig. HW 1241/ LW 0536
HW/LW Time 7-4), enter the values for the HW and
LW that 0700 falls between. See
figure 7-3.
HW/LW Time 10. Write in the values from steps 5 and HW +50 / LW + 46
Diff 6.
Sub Sta 11. Apply time difference corrections. 1241 0536
HW/LW Time + 50 + 46
1331 0622
HW Time LW Time
Ref Sta 12. From the reference station (table 1) HW 4.7 / LW 1.2
HW/LW Ht enter the values for the HW and LW
heights that correspond with step 9.
HW/LW Ht Diff 13. Write in the values from steps 7 and HW *0.84 / LW *0.85
8.
Sub Sta 14. Apply height difference corrections. 4.7 * .84=3.9 HW Height
1.2 * .85 =1.0 LW Height
HW/LW Ht
Figure 7-4. Excerpt from Tide Table, table 1.
7-9
Now that we have the subordinate station data, we can complete the
remainder of the problem; finding the height of the tide at the desired time
of 0700.

HT OF TIDE Form
Duration Rise 15. To compute this duration, find the 7h 09m rising
Fall two subordinate stations’ times that
bracket your desired time. In this
case they are 0622 and 1331.
Calculate the total time difference
between the two (1331 - 0622 = 7
hours 09 minutes). We can tell by
observation that between 0622 and
133 1 the tide is rising. Enter this
data on the worksheet.
Time Fm Near 16. Next, determine the time nearest 2h 31m
Tide high/low for which the desired tide
height is required. In this case the
desired time of 1100 is nearest to
high tide at 133 1. Now find the time
difference between the two
(1331 - 1100 = 2 h 31m). Enter this
data on the worksheet.
Range of Tide 17. Now calculate the range of tide. 2.9
Simply find the difference between
the height of high and low tide from
the same two subordinate station
times bracketed for duration above
(3.9 - 1.0 = 2.9). Enter this data or
the worksheet.
Ht of Near Tide 18. Enter the height of the nearest tide 3.9 ft
this case from the high tide at 1331.
7-10
OPNAV 3530/40 (4-73) Step Action Strip

HT OF TIDE
Form
Corr Table III 19. Enter the upper portion of the table with the
nearest duration of rise or fall (upper left margin)
for 7h 09m.
19 a. Follow this line horizontally until you reach the
column for the nearest value for the time to
nearest high/low water (2 hour 3 1 minutes).
19 b. Follow this column down to the lower half of the 1.0 ft
table until you intersect the nearest value for the
range of tide (lower left margin). Extract the data
(1.0 ft) and enter on the worksheet.
HT of Tide 20. To find the final piece of information you need, 2.9 ft
height of tide, you must apply the correction as
directed by the instructions at the bottom of table
Those instructions are as follows:
“When the nearest tide is high water, subtract the

correction.”
“When the nearest tide is low water, add the

correction.”
In this case the nearest tide is high, so you

subtract the correction (3.9 -1.0 = 2.9 ft).
You have now computed the height of tide for 1100 standard time,
September 8, 1993, at George Washington Bridge, N.Y. The tide will be
2.9 feet above mean lower low water (charted depth).
7-11
How to Graph Tide Data
Introduction When the height of tide is required for a number of times on a certain
day, the graphical method of determining tides can be very useful. For
example, a buoy tender may spend an entire day servicing aids to
navigation in one particular area. Having the tides displayed on a graph
for the entire day will save you from having to calculate the height of
tide separately for each aid you visit.
To illustrate how to construct a tide graph, we will use the same data
presented in the previous section for the height of tide at Tue Marshes
Light, Virginia. The form shown in figure 7-5 should prove helpful in
guiding you through the problem, however, regular graph paper can be
used if you desire.
Figure 7-5. Sample tide graph form.
7-12
How to Graph Tide Data, Continued
Step Action
1. Complete the upper section of the form by filling in the reference, subordinate, and differences data
for 8 SEP 93. Notice on the graph that time is listed along the bottom in even hours (interpolate
when necessary), and the height is listed along the left margin. The solid line at 0 feet is the base
line, or charted depth.
2. Set the height scale. Each line can represent one foot, one-half foot, one-tenth foot, and so on.
Try to use a scale that results in the largest graphical representation practical. In our example, the
largest increment we can use and still remain on the graph is 0.2 feet per line.
3. Plot the high and low tide times and heights on the graph (fig. 7-6). Use the subordinate station
data since you wish to know the tides at this location (Tue Marshes Light). Start with the first
time and height listed, 0057 at 0.6 feet. Plot as shown below. Continue by plotting the other three
points, then connect each point with a light line.
Figure 7-6. Plot the times of high and low water on the graph.
7-13
Step Action
4. Divide the first line into four equal segments as shown in figure 7-6. The easiest way to do this
is to extract the length of the line with dividers and place this length on the height scale. In the
case of the first line, this distance is 2.0 feet (approximately). Divide this by 4 and you have the
length of each segment 2.0/4 = 0.5 feet. Measure 0.5 feet along the height scale with your
dividers, then, starting at either end, divide the line into four segments.
5. At the quarter point next to the high water point, draw a vertical line above the point; and at the
quarter point next to low water point, draw a vertical line below the point equal to a distance of
1/10th of the total length of this line segment (i.e., 2.0 x .l = 0.2 feet). Refer to the example
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for the remaining two lines as shown in figure 7-7. Be sure to use the
length of the line you are working with for your computations; using the same measurement for
the first line will not work.
Figure 7-7. Repeat steps for the remaining two lines.
7-14
Step Action
7. Draw a smooth curve through the points of high and low waters and the
intermediate points, making the curve well rounded near the high and low waters
as shown in figure 7-8. A french curve is helpful although freehand is fine.
Figure 7-8. Draw a smooth curve through the points.
7-15
Tidal Currents
Introduction In navigation, the effect of the tidal current is often of more importance
than the changing depth due to the tide; in fact, many mariners speak of
"the tide" when they actually have the flow of the tidal current in mind.
Currents can be defined as the horizontal movement of water, and may
be classified as either tidal or nontidal.
Tidal Currents. These currents are caused by gravitational interactions

between the Sun, Moon, and Earth just like the vertical rise and fall
called tide, which we have discussed. Study the terms associated with
tidal currents.
Term Definition
Flood When the horizontal movement of water is
Current toward shore or up a tidal river or estuary, the
current is said to be flooding.
Ebb When the horizontal movement of water is away
Current from shore or down a tidal river or estuary, the
current is said to be ebbing.
Slack The period of time where there is little or no
Water current is called the minimum before flood or
ebb.
Duration of The interval of time in which a tidal current is
Flood flooding.
Duration of The interval in which the current is ebbing. In a
Ebb normal semidiurnal tidal current, the duration of
flood and duration of ebb will each be
approximately 6 hours, but can vary.
Set The direction of the current is called SET, and is
expressed in the direction TOWARD which the
current flows.
Speed of The velocity of the current is called speed of
Current or current and is sometimes referred to as drift.
Drift
7-16
Tidal Currents, Continued
Nontidal Currents. There are known and charted currents in all three
of the major oceans that are classified as major currents. In the Pacific,
the more important ones to note are the North Equatorial, South
Equatorial, Equatorial Counter, Japan Stream, Oyashiwo, Californian,
Australian, and Peruvian. In the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf Stream is the
most notable because of its clear definition as an ocean current and its
effect on shipping and weather. Another type of tidal current you might
encounter is called a ROTARY current. A rotary current is basically
one that flows continually with the direction of flow changing through
all points of the compass during the tidal period. Rotary currents are
usually found offshore where the direction of flow is not restricted by
any barriers.
The Basics Tidal currents are most pronounced in the entrances to large tidal
basins that have restricted openings to the sea. Helmsmen should keep
this fact in mind because they often experience difficulty in steering
ships in tidal basins. Tide rips caused by swift tidal currents flowing
over an irregular bottom often set up rips and eddies that are nearly
always deceptive in appearance and will sometimes change a ship’s
course as much as 30°. One characteristic of a tide rip is in the coloring
of the water. The line it caused may not always be straight, but it can
usually be seen. You may also observe small wavelets caused by the
wind. The water outside the current will often have many small
wavelets, whereas the swift running current may be barren of wavelets;
again, a quite visible line may be detected, giving the helmsman a clue
to what may lie ahead as the ship passes from one side of the line to the
other. Another clue for the helmsman is to observe the current trail
streaming from a buoy.
In rivers or straits, or where the direction of flow is more or less

restricted to certain channels, the tidal current is reversing; that is, it
flows alternately in approximately opposite directions with an instant or
short period of slack water at each reversal of the current. During the
flow in each direction, the speed varies from zero, or near zero at the
time of slack water to a maximum, either flood or ebb, about midway
between the slacks.
7-17
Tidal Current Tables
Layout Tidal Current Tables are tables that give daily predictions of the times
and speeds of the tidal currents. The tables are issued annually in two
volumes: one for the Atlantic Coast of North America and the other for
the Pacific Coast of North America. These tables are set up basically
the same as the Tide Tables. The Tidal Current Tables consist of five
tables plus a number of current diagrams and data concerning
wind-driven currents, the gulf stream, the combination of currents, and
current diagrams. A brief discussion of the five tables is given below.
Table 1 - Daily Current Predictions. This table gives the predicted

times of slack water and the predicted times and speeds of maximum
current, both flood and ebb, for each day of the year at a number of
reference stations. Also listed at the top of each page is the direction of
set toward which the currents flow. Like the Tide Tables, data in this
book are listed in standard time, so you must add 1 hour to convert the
times to daylight savings time.
Table 2 - Current Differences and Other Constants and Rotary

Currents. This table lists data for subordinate stations. When this data
is applied to the predicted times and speeds at the appropriate reference
stations, reasonable approximations of the current at the subordinate
station may be computed. Later in this assignment, we will use tables 1
and 2 to calculate the speed of current at a subordinate station.
Table 3 - Speed of Current at Any Time. This table allows you to

calculate the current at any time, not just the time of slack and
maximum current. We will work an example problem later in this
assignment.
Table 4 - Duration of Slack. This table provides a means of

calculating the approximate period of time during which weak currents
not exceeding 0.1 to 0.5 knots will be encountered. This duration
includes the last of the flood or ebb and the beginning of the following
ebb or flood, or half the duration will be before and half after the time
of slack water. Buoy tender sailors may find this table helpful if an aid
to navigation can only be worked safely at slack water.
Table 5 - This table lists data for a number of offshore stations for the
direction and average speed of the rotary tidal current for each hour of
the tidal cycle.
7-18
Current Calculations
Example of In the following example, we will calculate the times of the minimum
Current currents and the times and speed of the maximum currents on the
Problems morning of 8 September 1993 at a location known as Sewells Point.
All of the figures in these examples are excerpts from the Tidal Current
Tables.

HT OF TIDE
Form
Date 1. Enter the desired date. 08 SEP 93
Location 2. Enter the location. Look up Sewells Sewells Point
Point alphabetically in the index to
stations. The index to stations is
located in the back of the Tidal
Current Tables. Find the index
number (#5121) for Sewells Point,
note this number because you will use
it in step 4.
Time 3. Enter the desired time. 1100
Ref Station 4. The reference station is found by first Chesapeake Bay
finding our local or subordinate station Entrance p. 44
(Sewells Point) #5121, in table 2, and
then look in the center of the
DIFFERENCE column and follow it
upward to the line entitled "on
Chesapeake Bay Entrance p. 44."
Figure 7-9. Excerpt from Tidal Current Tables.
7-19
Current Calculations, Continued

VEL OF CURRENT Form
Time Diff 5. Inspect reference station time data. - 0 41
Slack Water Determine whether the desired time
falls between flood or ebb times. In
our case the current is flooding. We
need to know this to determine which
slack water time difference to use.
Table 2 labels slack water as Min.
before Flood or Min. before Ebb.
Enter the time difference.
Time Diff 6. Enter the flood time difference. - 0 47
Max Current
Vel Ratio 7. Follow the data to the right and find 1.1
Max Flood the values for velocity ratios and
directions from the SPEED RATIOS
and AVERAGE SPEED AND
DIRECTIONS columns.
Vel Ratio 8. Enter ratio. 1.0
Max Ebb
Flood Dir 9. Enter direction. 195°
Ebb Dir 10. Enter direction. 000°
7-20
Figure 7-10. Excerpt from Tidal Current Table.
7-21

VEL OF CURRENT
Form
Ref Sta Slack 11. Enter the reference station slack water 1012
Water Time time.
Time diff 12. Enter the time difference for slack - 0 41
water from step 5.
Local Sta Slack 13. Apply the time correction. 0931
Water Time
Ref Sta Max 14. Enter the reference station maximum 1246
Current Time current time.
Time Diff 15. Enter the time difference for slack -0 47
water from step 5.
Local Sta Max 16. Apply the time correction. 1159
Current Time
Ref Sta Max 17. Enter the maximum current velocity. .6 F
Current Vel
Vel Ratio 18. Enter the velocity ratio for flood from 1.1
step 7.
Local Sta Max 19. Multiply the values from steps 17 and .66 kt F
Current Vel 18 to find the maximum current
velocity at Sewells Point.
Int Between 20. Find the difference between the time 1 h 29 m
Slack and of slack water and our desired time of
Desired Time 1100.
Int Between 21. Find the difference between the time 2h 28m
Slack and Max of slack water and maximum current.
Current
Max Current 22. Enter the value from step 19. 66
Factor Table 3 23. Enter factor table 3 with the values .8
from steps 2 1 and 21. Note the table
value.
Velocity 24. Multiply the value from steps 22 and 528
23. Round to the closest tenth of a rounded to .5 kt
knot.
Direction 25. Enter the direction of the flood current 195°
from step 9.
7-22
How to Graph Tidal Currents
Procedure The graphing of current velocity information is generally the same as

graphing tide data. The most important difference is that tide height
changes at a fairly constant rate. Current velocity on the other hand is
related to many factors; for complete information on current velocity,
refer to Duttons, chapter 10.
We can use the times between slack water and maximum current to plot
our data. Table 4 can help us determine the amount of time a current is
weak and it should also help us make an educated guess of how steep a
curve must be plotted.
You may want to overlay the current data on the same graph as the one
that has tide data for the same period. If this is the case, it is normally
acceptable to omit drawing curves for the current data. Instead, you
would draw straight lines between slack water and maximum current.
At the intersection of each line, annotate SW for slack water and MC for
maximum current respectively. If you do choose to overlay, make sure
you use different colors of ink, one that represents tide data and one that
represents current data.
What’s Next In our next chapter you’ll learn how the Quartermaster keeps track of
the ship’s position.
7-23
Chapter 8
Dead Reckoning, Piloting, and Electronic Navigation
Introduction In this chapter, you will learn how to keep track of the ship’s position.
It is extremely important that the QMOW be able to quickly estimate the
ship’s position at any time. Dead reckoning (DR) is one of the most
basic and widely used methods of navigating. Dead reckoning is always
employed any time a vessel is under way.
The primary reason for using dead reckoning is that the navigator may
at any time give a reasonable account of the ship’s position without
having to take sights or obtain a position from other means. In many
places on Earth, a vessel may get beyond the range of today’s
sophisticated navigational aids and have to rely on methods as old and
time tested as the DR. Many vessels have been under way for weeks at
a time without having made a landfall or having any other contact with
shore and have still come within a very few miles of the desired
destination using only a carefully maintained DR plot.
The practice of maintaining a DR plot will be the first task we focus on

in this chapter. Piloting will be the second main focus of this chapter.
Perhaps you recall from chapter 1 that the QM uses visual aids to
establish the ship’s position when piloting. Electronic navigation uses
several pieces of electronic equipment. State of the art equipment is
often used. Currently, the Navy’s cutting edge electronic navigation
equipment is the WRN-6 Satellite Navigation Set.
Objectives The material in this chapter will enable you to:
Identify the primary reason for using dead reckoning, and match
plotting instruments and tools with their usages.
State how you obtain true or magnetic course using the compass
rose.
State the purpose of a course line, and identify the proper method of
labeling course lines.
State the two factors considered when using the dead reckoning
process.
Match the plotting symbols with their appropriate meaning: DR, EP,
visual fix, and electronic fix.
Calculate speed, time, and distance problems using the formula D =
S x T, the nautical slide rule, and the 3-minute rule.
List three methods used to measure a ship’s speed through the water,
8-l
Topics
Topic Page
The DR Plot 8-3
Terms Associated With the DR Plot 8-4
Time, Speed, and Distance 8-5
Using the Nautical Slide Rule 8-7
Practice Time, Speed, and Distance Problems 8-8
Example DR Plot 8-10
Labeling the DR Plot 8-11
Plan of Intended Movement (PIM) 8-12
Plotting Instruments 8-13
Plotting Techniques 8-15
Labeling the Course Line 8-17
Piloting 8-18
Lines of Position and Fixes 8-20
Determining the Ship’s Position Using True Bearings 8-21
Determining the Ship’s Position Using Relative Bearings 8-22
The Marine Sextant 8-24
Determining the Ship’s Position Using Sextant Angles 8-33
Determining the Ship’s Position by Running Fix 8-39
Using the Fathometer 8-41
Loran Time Difference Lines 8-43
Satellite Navigation Systems 8-44
Navigational Radar 8-49
Other Electronic Navigation Equipment 8-53
8-2
The DR Plot
General The importance of maintaining an accurate dead reckoning plot cannot

Information be overemphasized. Since other means of fixing your ship’s position
may not always be available, a navigator must rely on a DR plot.
If a ship made good the exact course and speed ordered, and there was
no wind or current, dead reckoning would, at all times, provide an
accurate indication of the ship’s position. A navigator must know the
position, or approximate position, to determine when to make changes in
course and/or speed, to predict the time of sighting lights or other aids to
navigation, and to identify landmarks.
Rules When maintaining a DR plot, there are six rules that govern what
actions the QM should take. These rules are not subject to
interpretation, they are hard and fast. Often, when the ship is changing
course it becomes tedious to maintain the DR plot. This is a given and
known fact; however, the importance of keeping the plot up to date can’t
be stressed enough.
These rules specify when a DR position shall be plotted:
# Rule
1. A DR position shall be plotted each hour on the hour.
2. A DR position shall be plotted at the time of every course
change.
3. A DR position shall be plotted at the time of every speed
change.
4. A DR position shall be plotted at the time of a fix or running fix.
5. A DR position shall be plotted at the time of obtaining a single
LOP.
6. A new course line shall be plotted from each new fix or running
fix.
8-3
Terms Associated with the DR Plot
Definition Table Use the following table to identify and learn the meanings of terms
associated with DR:
Term Definition
Heading The ship’s heading is always expressed in degrees
measured clockwise from 000° through 360°. Commonly
referred to as the ship’s head, the heading can be
referenced from true north, magnetic north, or compass.
The ship’s head is always changing due to the constant
yawing motion caused by the effects of the sea and
steering errors.
Course The course is the direction on which the ship is to be
steered. As an example, the helmsman is ordered to come
left steer new course 090° T . The helmsman would
respond by putting the rudder left and steadying the ship
on new course 090°T.
Course Line The course line is the graphical representation of the
course that is being steered laid on to the chart. Looking
back at our example, let’s assume the original course was
094°T. The chart would have had a 094°T course line
laid on it. When the helm was ordered to steer 090°T, a
new course line of 090°T would be laid on the chart.
Speed This is the ship’s ordered speed. For example, let’s
assume that ordered speed is 12 knots. For purposes of
DR, we assume that the ship will travel 12 nautical miles
in 1 hour
DR Position This position is determined by laying out the ship’s course
(course line) and speed on the chart. A DR position does
not take into account any current that may speed or slow
the ship.
Estimated This is a best guess position using available information.
Position In practical usage, it starts with the DR position and adds
other data such as the estimated speed and set of the
current.
Fix This position is established at a specific time that is
believed of high accuracy. With the recent addition of
Global Positioning System (GPS) WRN-6 satellite fix
data, it is now possible to obtain a highly accurate fix 24
hours a day.
8-4
Time, Speed, and Distance
Basics Time, speed, and distance are related by the formula:

distance = speed x time. Therefore, if any two of the three quantities
are known, the third can be found. The units must be consistent. (The
distance scales on nautical charts use nautical miles and yards, unless
otherwise stated on the chart. A nautical mile is equal to 2,000 yards.)
Thus, if speed is measured in knots and time in hours, the answer is in
nautical miles. Similarly, if distance is measured in nautical miles and
time in hours, the answer is in knots. If distance is measured in yards
and time in minutes, the answer is in yards per minute.
Table 19 of Bowditch is a speed, time, and distance table that supplies

one of the three values if the other two are known. It is intended
primarily for use in finding the distance steamed in a given time at a
known speed.
Solving the The following formulas may be used if the speed is measured in knots,
Time, Speed, the distance in nautical miles, and the time in hours and/or tenths of
and Distance hours (0.1 hour = 6 minutes).
Triangle
Distance = Speed x Time
Speed = Distance ÷ Time
Time = Distance ÷ Speed
Example 1. Your ship steams for a period of 4 l/2 hours and covers a
distance of 54 nautical miles. What is your speed?
S= TD 54 S= 12 knots
S= 4.5
In example 1, time was given in hours and tenths. When time is given
or required in minutes, the same formulas, slightly changed, are still
used.
8-5
Time, Speed, and Distance, Continued
Distance = Speed x Time ( minutes)

60
Speed = Distance x 60
Speed
Example 2. How many minutes (m) are required for a vessel to steam a
distance of 7 nautical miles at a speed of 7.5 knots?
T(m) = D x 60 T(m) = 7 x 60
S 7.5
T(m) = 420 T = 56 minutes
7.5
The following is an aid to help you

remember these formulas.
Simply place the letters in a triangle, as
shown in figure 8-1. For distance (D),
place your finger over the D and you
have S x T. For speed (S), cover the S
and you have D ÷ T. For time (T), cover
the T and you have Figure 8-1.
D÷S T, S, and D
triangle.
3-Minute Rule Another way of solving problems of distance, speed, and time is by
using the 3-minute rule. The 3-minute rule will help solve mathemat-
ical computations without a nomogram or calculator. The rule states:
The distance traveled in yards over 3 minutes divided by 100 equals the
speed in knots. To simplify, just drop two zeros from any distance
traveled in yard in any 3 minute period.
Example 1: Ship travels 1,600 yd. in 3 min. 1,600/100 = 16 (Speed is 16

knots).
Example 2: Ship’s speed is 16 kn for 3 min. 16 x 100 = 1,600 yd.
8-6
Using the Nautical Slide Rule
Procedure To simplify speed, time, and distance solutions, most Quartermasters use
a circular slide rule (fig. 8-2), commonly known as a nautical slide rule.
When you enter two known variables on the appropriate scales, the third
value can be found.
Figure 8-2. Nautical slide rule.
Caution Do NOT rely solely on the nautical slide rule to calculate time, speed,
and distance problems. A problem will surely arise when the slide rule
is not available. Additionally, you cannot use a nautical slide rule when
taking advancement examinations.
8-7
Practice Time, Speed, and Distance Problems
1. Using the formula for solving time, speed, and distance problems, solve each of the
following:
TIME SPEED DISTANCE

a. 14 kt 146 nmi
b. 12 min .6 nmi
c. 73.5 hr 16 kt
d. 76 hr 874 nmi
e. 9h.r 8 kt
f. 15 kt 1485 nmi
g. 18 kt 918 nmi
h. 11 hr 132 nmi
2. The 3-minute rule simply states that distance traveled in yards in minutes divided
by equals .
3. Using the 3-minute rule, solve each of the following, rounding to the nearest tenth
where required.
TIME SPEED DISTANCE

a. 3 min 750 yd
b. 6 min 1420 yd
c. 3 min 765 yd
d. 6 min 1140 yd
e. 3 min 414 yd
f. 3 min 840 yd
8-8
Measuring the Ship’s Speed
Methods Speed can be determined directly using special instruments or indirectly

by means of distance and time.
The first method of measuring a ship’s speed and distance involves the
use of instruments that directly measure a ship’s motion through the
water. Such instruments are called logs. The three types of modern
logs in common use today are: the pitot-static log, the impeller log, and
the electromagnetic log. Figure 8-3 is an example of a speed log
indicator. Each of these logs requires the use of a device called a
rodmeter, which is basically a blade or rod that is projected through the
bottom of the hull. The rodmeter contains the sensing devices that
determine speed. You must be careful not to lower the rodmeter in
shallow water as it may strike the bottom.
Another way of determining speed and distance is indirectly using

engine or shaft revolutions. This data can be derived, or verified, by
running the ship over a measured mile. To do this, you run the
measured mile at given engine rpm’s, and note the time it takes you to
travel the mile. Then using the speed, time, and distance formulas
previously given, you determine the speed for that rpm. A table, graph,
or both are then prepared that relate rpm to ship’s speed.
Figure 8-3. Speed log indicator.
8-9
Example of a DR Plot
Example Figure 8-4 represents a sample DR plot. At 0900 your ship departs
point A en route to point B on course 090°T, speed 12 knots. In this
particular example, DRs are laid out every hour; you expect to arrive at
point B at 1300.
At 1200, you obtain a fix which places your ship 180°T, 5 miles from
your 1200 DR position (point X). If you were to maintain your original
course of 090°T, you will miss your destination; therefore, a correction
is necessary.
Since time was required to record and evaluate your fix and to decide a
new course and speed to reach your destination (point B), the change
cannot occur at the 1200 fix. Instead, you must DR ahead some point in
time. In this case, the navigator plots a 1210 DR position based on the
old, and still maintained, course and speed. From here the navigator
calculates the new course of 050° T, speed 15 knots. It is important to
remember that the course line will continue in the direction and speed
originally ordered during the time spent obtaining and plotting the fix
and while deciding a new course and speed.
Figure 8-4. Example DR plot.
8-10
Labeling the DR Plot
Symbols The symbol for a DR position is a small semicircle around a small dot
on a straight segment of a course line (fig. 8-5); it will be more or less
than a semicircle when plotted at a change in direction. The letters DR
are not used. Time, to the nearest minute, stated in the 24-hour system
as a 4-digit number is written nearby. All symbols for labeling positions
are also shown.
Figure 8-5. Symbols used for labeling positions along a course line.
Answers:
1. a. 10.4 hrs, b. 3 k, c. 1176 nmi, d. 11.5 k, e. 72 nmi, f. 99 hrs,

g. 51 hrs, h. 12 k.
2. 3/100/speed in knots
3. a. 7.5 k, b. 7.1 k, c. 7.7 k, d. 5.7 k, e. 4.1 k, f. 8.4 k
8-11
Plan of Intended Movement (PIM)
Basics Prior to any ship getting under way, a PIM must be formed. Normally,
the senior Quartermaster and the navigator will discuss the best possible
routes for the ship to follow. Messages are then sent to group
commanders and the ship gets under way. As the QMOW, you will be
tasked with tracking the ship’s progress.
Tracking is directly related to time, speed, and distance calculation.

Figure 8-6 represents a ships track with PIM times and dates annotated.
As a rule, PIM is laid out for every 4 hours GMT. When referring to
the ship’s position in relation to PIM, you should express any values as
time ahead or behind PIM. Let’s look at an example.
Figure 8-6. Example PIM calculation.
8-12
Plotting Instruments
Basics Let’s put together what we’ve learned about the DR plot, the tools of the
trade, and the techniques the Quartermaster uses.
Tools used to project lines, scribe arcs, measure angles and distances,
and do a host of other jobs are just some of the hand tools you will use
as a Quartermaster. Items such as pencils, parallel rulers, compasses,
and dividers are a MUST on any bridge or in any chart room.
Tools of the Pencils: Primary among these tools is the pencil you use. There are
Trade several grades or hardness of lead. The softer grades, such as the No. 2,
are ideal for plotting positions on the chart and for other general uses
around the bridge. No. 3 pencils are considerably harder, will hold a
point longer, and will usually sharpen better for use in drawing fine
lines as will be required when the QM wants to plot stars, draw course
lines, or do other chart work that requires the use of better than average
lines to show the condition to be depicted. Under most conditions, only
the Nos. 2 and 3 grade pencils will be necessary.
Parallel Rulers: Parallel rulers are instruments used for moving lines
parallel to themselves, determining direction from the compass rose, and
laying out course lines. These are, of course, only a few of the uses of
parallel rulers. Some of the other uses include drawing straight lines,
advancing lines of position, checking ranges, plotting fixes, and
measuring direction from one given point to another. There are other
devices available which are easier to use and will do the same job as
parallel rulers. The Weems parallel plotter (fig. 8-7) is the most widely
used variation of the parallel ruler.
Figure 8-7. A parallel rule (top) and a Weems parallel plotter.
8-13
Plotting lstruments, Continued
Tools of the Compasses: Compasses are not to be confused with the direction
Trade, continued finding compass such as the magnetic or gyrocompass. The compasses
referred to here are tools that are very similar in appearance to the
divider. The distinction between dividers and compasses is that while
both divider legs are fitted with needles, the compass legs are fitted with
a needle on one leg and a marking lead or pencil on the other.
Compasses are useful for

scribing circles and arcs such
as radar ranges or perhaps
showing the limits of a light’s
visibility. Dividers and
compasses (fig. 8-8) will give
best results when the
adjustment screw at the hinged
end is kept tight enough to
permit ready use but prevent
slippage. The needle points
should be sharp, extended to
the same length, and locked
securely using the locking
screw provided. Figure 8-8. Compass and dividers.
A variation of the compass, called a beam compass, is used when a

greater spread is required than an ordinary compass can accommodate.
The beam compass is simply a long bar with a needle point at one end
and a marking lead or pencil at the other end; both are adjustable. This
compass is very useful when using large-scale charts such as harbor
charts.
Dividers: A pair of dividers is an instrument or tool used to measure

the difference between two given points. It consists of two small pieces
of metal, plastic, or wood, hinged at one end, allowing the opposite ends
to be separated. There are needles or points placed in the ends of both
legs which enable the user to obtain a more accurate measurement and
allow the tool to be swung from one length to another without slipping.
There are many sizes of dividers, but the 5- and 6-inch sizes have been
found to be the most popular and useful. Larger dividers are handy at
times, but can be clumsy to use.
8-14
Plotting Techniques
General To travel accurately and safely from point to point on Earth’s surface,
Procedure charts have been constructed to show the locations of most all prominent
places. Using these charts, a navigator can plan the voyages. By
drawing a line on the chart from one place to another, a navigator
establishes a line known as a course line, the purpose of which is simply
to provide a graphic representation of a vessel’s course. Careful
attention must be paid to ensure that there are no dangers to navigation,
such as rocks, reefs, islands, and so forth, along the route of intended
travel. From this line, the navigator determines the direction in which
the ship must sail to arrive at the desired location. By measuring the
distance between the two places and knowing the speed of the ship, the
navigator computes how long the voyage will take.
As defined in the terms table, course (C) is horizontal direction of travel,

expressed as angular distance from a reference direction, usually from
000° clockwise through 360°. For marine navigation, the term course
applies to the direction to be steered, which sometimes differs from the
direction you intend to make good over the ground. Course is most
often designated as true, but may also be designated as magnetic,
compass, or gyro.
Often while the ship is following the intended track, it will be necessary
to change course to avoid other ships or make adjustments for current
that sets the ship off the intended track.
Maintaining the DR plot is a matter of closely following the six rules of

DR. Let’s look at an example of what is required to maintain a sample
plot. The example shown in figure 8-9 illustrates a typical DR plot. At
0900 your ship departs point A en route to point B on course 065°T,
speed 10 knots. In this particular example, DRs are laid out every 30
minutes; you expect to arrive at point B at 1200. At 0941 you change
course to avoid shipping traffic. At 1000 you obtain a fix which places
your ship right of your track line. Based on the 1000 fix, you
recommend course 075°T to arrive at point B on time.
8-15
Plotting Techniques, Continued
Figure 8-9. Sample plot.
This example is for illustration purposes only. In actual practice, the

QMOW will normally obtain and plot a fix every hour while on the
open ocean. The frequency of fixes is determined by the navigator. It
is not unusual while in coastal waters for the QMOW to obtain and plot
fixes each l/2 hour or even every 15 minutes.
8-16
Labeling the Course Line
Procedure Figure 8-10 shows a typical layout and labeling of course lines. The
label for direction is the letter C followed by three digits indicating true
course in degrees; this is placed above the course line. If course lines
are based on magnetic headings, the letter M is added following the
digits.
Figure 8-10. Labeled course line.
The intended speed, or the speed you wish to make good with respect to
Earth, is known as speed of advance, or simply SOA. SOA is also used
to designate the average speed that must be made good to arrive at a
destination at a specified time. The letter S followed by numbers shows
the intended speed. This is placed below the course line, usually
directly beneath the direction label.
Emergency There are times when you will be required to plot positions in
Plotting emergency situations. The most common of these is during man
overboard events. Your reaction time is critical. The preferred method
is to use the WRN-6 to enter a waypoint and then drive the ship back to
that point. You may also use this method using commercial Loran C
receivers. You must consult the WRN-6 or Loran C operators manuals
for step by step instructions.
Leading Petty Officers: Post detailed man overboard procedures at the

chart table on the bridge. Hold training frequently on procedures, strive
to obtain fix data within 3 seconds from sounding man overboard alarm.
8-17
Piloting
Introduction Navigation becomes more demanding when your ship is near land or in
restricted waters where there is an immediate danger of possible
grounding. Piloting is the process of safely directing the movement of a
vessel from one point to another involving frequent or continuous
determination of a ship’s position relative to geographical points, to a
high order of accuracy.
Section List the three types of navigational observances used to determine a

Objectives ship’s position in piloting.
Match the following navigation terms with their meanings:
a. true bearings i. estimated position
b. relative bearing f. piloting
c. fix g. set & drift
d. speed of advance h. line of position
e. course over ground j. running fix
List the procedures for obtaining visual bearings and radar ranges.
State the best objects and proper order to obtain visual bearings and
radar ranges.
Convert relative bearings to true bearings.
List the procedures for plotting a visual fix and a radar fix.
List the procedures to set up and plot visual bearings with a PMP.
List the methods used to compensate for gyro error on a PMP.
State how to obtain a bearing and range from radar.
Make proper entries in the Standard Navy Bearing Book.
State the OPNAV instruction that regulates how to maintain a
navigation plot.
Identify the general requirements for LOPS when maintaining a
navigation plot.
8-18
Piloting
The Navigation Piloting must be done on a chart. You must construct a plot based upon
Team accurate navigational observations of charted features. These
observations of charted features include:
bearings to visible objects

distances to objects
depth sounding
To effectively navigate in confined waters, a team of personnel must

assist the navigator. The navigation team composition is as follows:
Position Responsibilities
Navigator All navigation functions.
Assistant navigator Supervises navigation team, assists the navigator.
Plotter Plots bearing on the chart, DRs, calculates set
and drift.
Bearing takers Takes bearings on objects as directed by the
bearing recorder.
Bearing recorder Relays bearing to the plotter, records bearings,
provides all stations with marks.
Fathometer Reports depth of the water on each mark.
operator
CIC phone talker Provides the bridge with navigation data from
CIC as requested.
The Navigation In all cases, a ship needs a plan of action prior to getting under way or
Brief entering port. This plan, called the Navigation Brief, is a detailed
description of all aspects of the ship’s actions while in piloting waters.
Information concerning the ship’s track, navigation aids to be used, tide
and current data, emergency anchorages, and other data are all contained
in the Navigation Brief.
The actual construction of the Navigation Brief will be covered in detail

in chapter 12.
8-19
Lines of Position and Fixes
Defined A line of position (LOP) is a line established by observations or

measurement on which a vessel can be expected to be located. The
concept of a LOP is extremely important in piloting. From a single
LOP, one can safely assume that the ship is located somewhere along
that line.
A LOP may be straight (for bearings) or curved (for ranges). To obtain

a high degree of accuracy when fixing the ship’s position, you must use
three or more LOPs.
Accuracy: Factors such as chart errors, human limitations, and

equipment errors may affect the accuracy of a LOP. The accuracy of
any single LOP can be checked by comparison with two or more LOPS
that are taken simultaneously. A bearing will be suspect if it plots away
from two other LOPs.
Fixes A fix is the point of intersection of two or more simultaneously obtained

LOPS indicating your ship’s exact position on the chart. The accuracy
of a fix obtained from two LOPS is almost always questionable. Since
we have already stated that accuracy is of the utmost importance in
piloting, you must always strive to obtain three or more lines of position
for an accurate fix.
Labeling LOPs Any single LOP that is obtained must be labeled with the time that it
was obtained. This is necessary if it is to be in a running fix. An
unlabeled LOP can mistakenly be used and become a source of error.
In the practice of piloting, single LOPS are not common because

bearings on objects are taken at the same time by the bearing takers.
The fix resulting from these bearings is labeled with the time the
bearings were taken.
Selecting The angle between selected objects is the most important factor to
Landmarks for consider when selecting objects to fix the ship’s position from. For
LOPS three simultaneous LOPS to provide the best fix, they should be located
120° apart. This is often impossible in practical application. Normally,
the assistant navigator or plotter will select possible objects to obtain
bearing and the resulting fixes from. Use of conspicuous landmarks is
always desirable. Lighted towers, water tanks, and buildings are some
possibilities.
8-20
Determining the Ship’s Position Using True Bearings
Procedure The following table identifies the process of determining the ship’s
position by true bearings.
Step Action
1. The assistant navigator or plotter selects objects to shoot
bearing on.
2. The bearing recorder informs the bearing takers of the objects
they are to shoot.
3. At the appropriate time, the bearing recorder gives a
lo-second standby and on the minute gives the order
"MARK" to the bearing takers.
4. At the exact moment, the bearing takers shoot and relay the
values of the bearings to the bearing recorder.
Rule: It is common for both bearing takers to be required to

shoot bearings on more than one object. Bearing takers
MUST shoot objects closest to the beam of the ship first, then
shoot objects closest to the bow, and finally objects closest to
the stern.
Memory Aid: BEAM, BOW, STERN
5. The bearing recorder relays the bearings to the plotter.

6. The plotter plots all bearings, labels the resulting fix,
determines set and drift, and DRs out on the track.
7. The navigator analyzes the fix data and makes reports and
recommendations on actions to be taken to the officer of the
deck.
Skills The table explained only the process that is generally followed to fix the
ship’s position using true bearings. Learning the actual skills required to
function as a member of the piloting team requires many hours of OJT
and meeting requirements for PQS. Inexperienced QMs normally begin
training on the piloting team as bearing takers and move to stations
requiring more responsibilities as their individual skills progress.
8-21
Determining the Ship’s Position Using Relative Bearings
Relative A relative bearing refers to a bearing taken on an object relative to the

Bearings ship’s heading. They are measured from 000° through 360°.
Example: If a ship is on course 090° T and a bearing taker shoots light

"A", 020° relative, this means that light "A" is 20° to the right of the
ship’s head. To convert relative bearings to true bearings, apply the
formula SH + RB = (subtract 360 from T if over 360°). SH is ship’s
head, RB is relative bearing, and T is the true bearing.
When to Use In almost all cases, relative bearing navigation will be used when a
Relative casualty occurs to the gyrocompass. There are several methods available
Bearings for use to find the ship’s position using relative bearings. In this text,
we will cover only the preferred method. Complete information on
using relative bearings can be found in Dutton's.
Procedure Use the following table to use relative bearings to fix the ship’s position.
Rule: The helmsman must mark the ship’s head each time a round of
bearings are taken; the bearing recorder must start a new column to
record ship’s head data.
Step Action
1. Direct bearing takers to shift to relative bearings using the outer
ring of the pelorus; shoot a round of bearings.
2. Align the PMP ruler to the ships head. Example: Cse 200° T
3. With a sharp white grease pencil, mark compass deviation from
the deviation tables onto the PMP scale. Remember + W - E.
Example: For 5° W deviation, mark 205° on PMP scale. 205°

is the Compass Cse the helmsman must steer. When you
recommend new courses, use magnetic courses indicated by the
grease pencil mark.
4. Now mark the 180° and 0° on the PMP scale with the grease
pencil. Use these marks to align the relative bearings.
5. Plot the round of bearings using the 180° and 0° grease pencil
marks.
Figure 8-11 on the following page shows a PMP that is set up for
relative bearing navigation.
8-22
Determining the Ship’s Position Using Relative Bearings,

Continued
Figure 8-11. PMP set up for relative bearing navigation.
Accuracy The results of a relative bearing fix are directly related to the accuracy
of the deviation table. If the compass deviation listed is in error by 2°,
then all bearings may be off by 2°. There is a way to check the
accuracy of the deviation tables for any area in which the ship is
operating. Comparing the deviation table to the entries in the Magnetic
Compass Record Book may at times give an indication to the accuracy
of the deviation tables. Often, interpolation is required. Any decision to
deviate from values given in the deviation tables must be made by the
navigator and recorded in the Standard Bearing Book.
8-23
The Marine Sextant
The Marine The marine sextant’s only function is to measure angles, either
Sextant horizontally or vertically. The most common use of the sextant is for
celestial observations using vertical angles between celestial objects and
the horizon. It is also used for fixing your position using horizontal
angles between three charted objects. In this chapter, we will concern
ourselves with the latter method. Before we can learn how to fix the
ships position using the marine sextant, we need to learn how to operate
the marine sextant. Figure 8-12 shows the parts of a marine sextant.
Figure 8-12. The marine sextant.
8-24
The Marine Sextant, Continued
Parts and These are the parts and functions of the marine sextant:
Functions
Part Description of Function

Arc scale Indicates the number of degrees of an angle.
Index arm Pivots at one end to allow the attached index mirror to
reflect an object onto the horizon glass and swings
along the arc scale on the other end to indicate what
the angle measures.
Micrometer drum Rotates to make fine adjustments when measuring
angles and indicates minutes of a degree of angle. It is
attached to the lower end of the index arm. One
complete rotation moves the index arm 1° along the arc
scale. The drum has 60 graduations, each representing
1' of arc.
Vernier scale Indicates tenths of a degree of angle. It is attached on
the index arm adjacent to the micrometer drum and has
10 graduations, each representing 0.1' of arc.
Index mirror Reflects objects onto the horizon glass.
Horizon glass Allows the observer to view one object directly on one
side while observing a second object reflected next to
it. The half of the horizon glass next to the frame is
silvered to make that portion of the glass a mirror; the
other half is clear glass.
Telescope Directs the line of sight of the observer to the horizon
glass and magnifies the objects observed.
Filters Protects the observer’s eyes when viewing the Sun.
Release levers Disengages the index arm from the arc scale to allow
the index arm to move freely.
8-25
How a Sextant A reflected object from the index mirror can be brought into line with
Works an object viewed directly by moving the index arm along the arc scale
until the reflected object can be seen in the horizon glass. The angle
measurement is read off the arc scale, micrometer drum, and vernier
scale. Figure 8-13 shows how a sextant works.
Figure 8-13. How a sextant works.
8-26
How to Read Reading a sextant angle involves properly understanding and interpreting
the Sextant the markings on the arc scale, micrometer drum, and vernier scale.
Follow these steps to properly read a sextant angle:
Step Action
1. Locate the position of the index arm mark on the arc scale.
2. Determine which degrees the mark is between. The lower reading is the
amount of whole degrees.
3. Locate the position of the zero mark on the vernier scale.
4. Determine which minutes the zero mark is between on the micrometer drum.
The lower mark is the amount of whole minutes.
5. On the vernier scale, determine which graduation mark is most nearly in line
with one of the graduation marks on the micrometer drum. This mark
indicates the amount of tenths of a minute.
Note: To make sure you select the correct mark, look at the vernier marks on
each side of the one that appears to be in line with a drum mark. Both
vernier marks will be on the inside of the closest drum marks.
Figure 8-14 is an example of a sextant angle of 67° 40.6'.
Figure 8-14. Reading a sextant angle.

8-27
Finding the The marine sextant will measure angles accurately if it is properly
Index Error adjusted and used correctly. The senior Quartermaster is responsible for
making sure that any adjustable errors are properly corrected before the
sextant is used. However, practically every sextant has a small error
called index error (IC), which cannot be adjusted.
Use these procedures to determine index error every time you use a
sextant to measure angles. An index error correction must then be
applied (added or subtracted) to every angle that is taken.
Follow these steps to determine index error:
Step Action
1. Hold the sextant in a vertical position with your right hand on
the handle.
2. Move the index arm to approximately zero on the arc scale
with your left hand using the release levers.
3. View the horizon through the telescope.
4. Rotate the micrometer drum to align the reflected image of the
horizon with the direct image.
5. Take a reading.
6. Repeat steps 3 through 5 at least two more times.
7. Average the three readings to determine index error.
8. Apply the index error correction to your angle.
IF index error THEN...

is...
zero no correction is needed.
positive subtract the amount of index error.
negative add the index error.
8-28
View of the Figure 8-15 is an illustration of what you should see when trying to
Horizon determine index error.
Figure 8-15. Direct and reflected views of the horizon.
8-29
How a Reading An example of what the scales would look like if there were no index
of 0.0 Index error is shown in figure 8-16. Notice that the index mark is directly
Error Looks under the 0 on the arc scale and the 0 mark on the vernier scale lines up
directly with the 0 mark on the micrometer drum.
Figure 8-16. A reading of 0.0 index error.
8-30
Reading Positive An example of what the scales would look like if you had a positive
Index Error index error is shown in figure 8-17. Notice that the index mark is to the
left of the 0 on the arc scale and that the 0 on the vernier scale is above
the 0 on the micrometer drum, indicating a positive error. The
micrometer and vernier scale lineup directly at the 0.4' line on the
vernier scale, indicating an index error of +0.4'. This would be
subtracted from any angles taken with this sextant to obtain an accurate
angle.
Figure 8-17. Positive index error.
8-31
Reading An example of a reading of negative index error is shown in figure

Negative Index 8-18. Notice that the index mark is to the right of the 0 on the arc scale
Error and the 0 on the vernier scale is below the 0 on the micrometer drum.
The micrometer scale and vernier scale line up directly on the 0.7' mark
of the vernier scale, indicating a -0.7' index error. The correction would
be added to any angles shot with the sextant.
Figure 8-18. Negative index error.
8-32
Determining the Ship’s Position Using Sextant Angles
Accuracy and Horizontal sextant angles give fixes of great accuracy that are not
Usage affected by any error of the compass. A fix by horizontal sextant angles
is labeled the same as a visual fix with a small circle around the position
and the time of the fix close to the fix symbol.
Horizontal sextant angles used in conjunction with a computer-assisted

positioning program are the most common method used by the Coast
Guard to position aids to navigation.
Horizontal sextant angles should be taken as nearly simultaneously as

possible, preferably by two people on a predetermined signal. However,
one person can obtain both angles if the ship is not moving quickly.
Procedure Rule: To obtain a fix using sextant angles, you must have three fixed
visual objects, and those objects must be identifiable on the chart.
Follow these steps to obtain horizontal sextant angles:
Step Action
1. Hold the sextant horizontally with your right hand.
2. View the left object directly through the telescope.
3. Release the index arm with your left hand on the release
levers and swing the arm so that the index mirror reflects the
center object in the horizon glass below the left object.
4. Rotate the micrometer drum to fine adjust the reflected
object in line with the object viewed directly.
5. Take a reading of the angle.
6. Do you have two people taking angles?
If yes, both angles are ready to be plotted.
If no, repeat steps 1 through 5 using the center object viewed

directly and the right object viewed reflected.
8-33
Determining the Ship’s Position Using Sextant Angles, Continued
Select Three Figure 8-19 illustrates how three objects are needed to obtain two
Objects angles.
Figure 8-19. Select three objects to obtain two angles.
View of Two Figure 8-20 is an illustration of what you see when trying to determine
Objects the angle between two objects.
Figure 8-20. Horizontal measurement of two objects.
8-34
Using the The two angles measured are plotted using a three-arm protractor. This
Three-Arm instrument, made of brass or plastic, consists of a circular scale that can
Protractor be read to fractions of a degree or minutes of arc, and to which the three
arms are attached. The center, or index arm, is fixed and the zero
graduation of the protractor coincides with the straightedge of this arm.
The other arms are movable and can be set and locked at any angle
relative to the fixed arm. Figure 8-21 is a diagram of a plastic three-arm
protractor.
Figure 8-21. Plastic three-arm protractor.
8-35
Setting the The movable arms can be set to the nearest minute of arc using the
Protractor vernier scale that is inscribed on the movable arms. Use the following
steps when setting the movable arms to a specific angle. Figure 8-22 is
an example of a setting of 12° 18' on the three-arm protractor.
Step Action
1. Loosen the clam screw on the arm you are setting.
2. Move the arm so that the index line is between the degree you want and the
next higher degree.
3. Adjust the arm so that the vernier mark indicating the minutes of arc you
want is directly in line with the degree mark closest to it.
Note: Make sure you apply the index error correction to angles.
4. Tighten the clamp screw on the arm.
5. Repeat steps 1 through 4 on the other arm for the second angle.
Figure 8-22. Setting angle on the three-arm protractor.
8-36
Obtaining the You must first observe the angles with a sextant and set the three-arm
Fix protractor with those angles.
Swingers or If the three objects and the ship all lie on the circumference of a circle,
Revolvers the fix is NOT reliable. When this happens, it is called a swinger or
revolver and your ship could be anywhere along the circle and still have
the same two angles to the three objects. See figure 8-23.
Figure 8-23. Difference between fixes and swingers.
8-37
Procedure for Use the following steps when you are plotting a position using
Plotting the Fix horizontal sextant angles. Figure 8-24 shows how the protractor is
positioned to plot the horizontal sextant angles.
Step Action
1. Place the three-arm protractor on the chart.
2. Position the center (fixed) index line so that it passes through
the center object.
3. Move the protractor slowly across the chart until all three arms
are aligned with the three objects.
4. Mark the ship’s position on the chart by inserting a pencil
point in the center of the protractor (pivot point).
5. Check to see that the fix is not a swinger or revolver.
Figure 8-24. Aligning the three-am protactor.

8-38
Determining the Ship’s Position by Running Fix
The Running Occasions will arise when it isn’t possible to shoot three or more objects
Fix to fix the ship’s position. In such instances, a single LOP shot on a
single object can be advanced to a common time, resulting in a running
fix. Advancing a LOP requires nothing more than moving the LOP
forward on the same bearing as the ship’s course and using the ship’s
speed without consideration of any current present.
Figure 8-25. Advancing a LOP.
A running fix is labeled in the same manner as a visual fix except that
the abbreviation R. fix is put beside the fix and fix time.
Figure 8-25 shows an example of how a LOP is advanced (moved) to

obtain a running fix.
8-39
Electronic Navigation
Introduction Position is determined in electronic navigation in about the same way

that it is in piloting, but there is this important difference: the objects
used to fix the ship’s position need not be visible from the ship.
Instead, their bearings (and sometimes their ranges) are obtained
electronically.
There are many different types of electronic equipment used in

navigation; some of these you may have used, others you may have only
heard about. Some of the more important ones are:
Fathometer
Radar
Loran-C
RDF
Omega
SATNAV
SINS
GPS
Many people believe that electronic navigation is becoming a primary

method for both piloting and long-range navigation. However, you must
continually bear in mind that there is no one system that can always be
used. Every method has its own limitations, and you should appreciate
and understand them. Electronic methods are vulnerable because of the
possibility of breakdown, malfunctioning, or damage. They are also
subject to atmospheric conditions and some can be successfully blocked
by jamming, capture, or destruction of related shore equipment by an
opposing force. You must, therefore, have a working knowledge of all
navigational methods available to you and be able to use them all as
required. Furthermore, the old saying "the equipment is only as accurate
as its operators" holds true. And operators are only as accurate as their
complete knowledge of the equipment they are using.
Section Describe the procedure used to annotate the fathometer echogram.

Objectives List the components of the fathometer.
List at least five types of electronic equipment used in navigation.
List the five steps used to plot time difference lines used
occasionally with electronic navigation.
List the components and operation of satellite navigation systems.
8-40
Using the Fathometer
Echo-sounding Charted landmarks on the ocean floor are often useful in assisting
Equipment mariners in determining their position. Submarine trenches, canyons,
ridges, and seamounts can all be useful in navigation. Echo-sounding
equipment such as the Navy AN/UQN-4 is the most common fathometer
found on naval vessels. This fathometer is the most accurate for
obtaining soundings in shallow depths. The AN/UQN-4 can be set for
five different scales. It is equipped with a digital display for reading all
scales and it has a strip chart recorder that actually traces the profile of
the ocean bottom when reading the 600-foot, 600-fathom, or
6,000-fathom scale. The smallest possible scale should always be used.
See figure 8-26.
Figure 8-26. Fathometer, transducer, and echogram.
Annotating the The paper on which the depths are recorded is used to annotate the
Echogram following information at the times indicated:
The ship’s name must be placed at the beginning and at the end of
each roll of paper.
Time in GMT must be marked at the beginning of each watch.
The current date should be recorded each day at 1200.
Time and date must also be marked whenever the unit is turned on.
8-41
LORAN-C
Introduction Loran-C (LOng RAnge Navigation) is an electronic aid to navigation

consisting of shore-based radio transmitters. The Loran system enables
users to determine their position quickly and accurately day or night in
any weather. Your position is determined by locating the crossing point
of two lines of position on a Loran-C chart. Most units today will give
you a direct readout in latitude and longitude, which will allow you to
plot your position even if you do not have a Loran overprinted chart.
Loran-C is generally accurate to 1/4 nautical mile. The Loran-C system
allows you to determine your position by means of radio signals
broadcast by stations of known position. A fix is determined by Loran
through the intersection of lines of position obtained by reference to
shore stations whose locations are known.
Time Difference In Loran-C, you locate a LOP by determining the difference in time of
Lines arrival of signals sent out by each of a pair of broadcast stations. This
interval is constant when the ship is located anywhere along a previously
determined Loran-C LOP. To say it another way: When the time
interval is a specific amount, the ship must be somewhere on a
predetermined Loran-C LOP that is a focus of all points where the
interval between arrival of signals is the same.
Plotting Time Most of the Loran-C receivers in use today provide the user with two
Difference Lines displays of fix information. The most commonly used is a readout of
the latitude and longitude of the vessel’s position. The other is a
readout of the time delay of each LOP, which can then be plotted on a
Loran-C overprinted chart. The steps for plotting the time difference
LOPS are described briefly below:
Step Action
1. Examine the Loran-C chart for your area. LOP lines are
marked with time difference numbers; chain and secondary
identification also appear every few lines.
2. Read the time difference in the TDA display.
3. On the chart, locate the line that most closely fits that reading
for the secondary selected.
4. Examine adjacent lines and interpolate to determine where the
line that corresponds to your reading is to be plotted
5. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the TDB display
6. Locate the point where the two lines cross and label the fix
with a small triangle along with the time affixed close by.
8-42
Satellite Navigation Systems
SATNAV The SATellite NAVigation (SATNAV) system is a highly accurate,

passive, all-weather, worldwide navigational system suitable for
subsurface and surface navigation, as well as for use in aircraft. This
system has been in wide use in the fleet, and is also available to
commercial interests. Because of today’s technology and expertise in
transistors, computers, and miniaturization, this system is extremely
accurate.
SATNAV plotting is made simple because the receiver gives a written

printout of the latitude and longitude of the vessel’s position along with
other information about the satellite pass which gives the navigator
valuable information about the accuracy of that particular satellite pass
and the time of the next pass. The AN-SRN-19 (fig. 8-27) is being
replaced throughout the fleet by the WRN-6 GPS navigation system.
Refer to the SRN-19 operators manual for specific instructions for
system setup.
Figure 8-27. AN/MN-19 Satellite Navigation Set.
8-43
Satellite Navigation Systems, Continued
Navstar GPS The Navstar Global Positioning System (GPS) was developed to
provide highly precise position and time information anywhere in the
world, regardless of weather conditions. Now fully operational, GPS
consists of 21 satellites (plus 3 operational spares). See figure 8-28.
The precise stationing of these satellites will provide worldwide
coverage with a minimum of 4 satellites in view of any user.
Figure 8-28. Navstar GPS Satellite Constellation.
8-44
GPS Signals Figure 8-29 depicts a simplified view of how a GPS signal is processed.
The AN/WRN-6 Satellite Signals Navigation Set is the receiver that the
Navy uses to obtain and display GPS fixes.
Figure 8-29. Navstar global positioning system.
AN/WRN 6(V) The AN/WRN 6(V), shown in figure 8-30, computes accurate position
coordinate, elevation, speed, and time information from the signals
transmitted from GPS satellites.
Accuracy: The AN/WRN 6(V) will provide positions accurate within

100 meters in the unencrypted mode and positions accurate to within 16
meters or less in the encrypted mode. At all times, if possible, the
AN/WRN 6(V) should be operated in the encrypted mode.
Operating Procedures: Specific operating instructions for the

AN/WRN 6(V) are contained in NAVY SPAWAR publication EE170-
AA-OMI-020/WRN6. All Quartermasters should become well versed in
the contents of this publication.
8-45
Figure 8-30. Satellite Signals Navigation Set AN/WRN 6(V).
8-46
Navigational Radar
Components of A typical surface radar set is made up of five components.

RADAR
Component Description of Function

Transmitter Sends out electromagnetic waves of energy.
Modulator Allows waves to be omitted as pulses.
Beams the energy at the targets and rotates to scan
Antenna the surrounding area.
Receiver Converts the reflected radio energy returned from the
target into usable data.
Indicator Presents the data received visually on a scope.
How RADAR The following stages help to explain how radar operates:
Works
Plan Position The PPI scope provides a bird’s-eye view of the area covered by the
Indicator (PPI) radar with your ship in the center. The sweep appears as a bright line
and originates in the center of the scope and extends to the outside edge.
This straight line sweep is synchronized with the radar antenna and
rotates 360°. Each time a target is detected, it appears as an intensified
spot on the scope. See figure 8-31.
8-47
Navigational Radar, Continued
Figure 8-31. PPI presentation.
PPI Display The scope can be adjusted to several different range scales to provide
Interpretation greater target detail. Range is measured in yards or nautical miles from
the center of the scope to the target indicated.
Some factors affecting the accuracy of radar are beam width, pulse
length, mechanical adjustment, and interpretation. Because of beam
width distortion, radar bearings are usually less accurate than radar
ranges. A fix obtained where two or more lines of position are
determined by ranges is more accurate than one obtained by bearings
alone. In most cases, radar ranges will always be available and will be
used over radar bearings.
Shorelines appear as they do on the chart; however, the PPI displays a

scaled down version of an area of the chart. Determining exactly what
you are seeing and where that area is on the chart takes practice.
8-48
How to Obtain a RADAR Bearing and Range
Bearings The PPI is equipped with a bearing cursor and a range strobe. The
bearing cursor, like the sweep, appears as a bright line and can be
manually rotated through 360°. Bearing information is obtained by
rotating the cursor to the center of the target. The target bearing is then
read directly from the bearing dial. On gyro-equipped ships (and most
ships having radars are so equipped), the radar has a gyro input and
bearings obtained from it are true. If a gyro failure occurs the radar
presentation automatically re-orients to a relative picture and relative
bearings may be taken from the PPI.
Ranges The range strobe appears as a bright spot riding on the cursor. As the
range crank is turned clockwise, the strobe moves out from the center.
Range is obtained by placing the strobe on the leading edge (edge
closest to the center of the PPI) of the target. The target range is then
read directly from the range dials, either in miles or yards.
Selecting Objects When plotting a radar fix, you will have already been comparing your
to Shoot radar "picture" with the navigational chart. Pick out points that show
prominently on both the chart and the radar. Try to locate reliable
targets that are easy to identify. You cannot afford to guess on what
you are using to obtain a range from. Objects not permanently fixed to
shore or the ocean bottom such as buoys should not be used when
obtaining a radar fix. Tangents also should be used as a last resort.
Shooting Ranges The order in which you take your radar ranges is just as important as it
in Proper Order was in visual bearings. Take radar ranges ahead and astern first because
they are changing most rapidly, then take ranges on or near the beam.
As is true with visual fixes, time is a critical element. Work quickly,
but accurately.
8-49
How to Plot RADAR Fixes
Procedure Use the following steps to properly plot a radar fix. Figure 8-32 is an
illustration of what a fix using three radar ranges looks like.
Step Action
1. Locate the distance scales or the latitude scale near your
approximate location on the chart.
2. Measure the distance on the scale using a compass.
3. Locate the charted navigational point used for the range.
4. Place the sharp point of the compass on the chart where you
took the range and draw an arc in the vicinity of your DR
position.
5. Repeat steps 2 thru 4 for all the ranges obtained.
6. Locate the area where the lines of position (arcs) all cross
each other.
7. Label the radar fix by putting a small triangle around the
intersection of the ranges, with the time of the fix noted
close to the symbol.
Figure 8-32. Example of a radar fix.
8-50
Other Electronic Navigation Equipment
SINS SINS (Ship’s Inertial Navigation System) is the process of directing the
movements of a rocket, ship, aircraft, or other vehicle from one point to
another, based on sensing acceleration of the vehicle in a known spatial
direction with the aid of instruments that mechanize the Newtonian laws
of motion, and integrating acceleration to determine velocity and
position.
SINS is an accurate, all-weather, dead reckoning system. It employs

gyroscopes, accelerometers, and associated electronics to sense turning
rates and accelerations associated with the rotation of the Earth, and with
ship’s movement relative to the surface of the Earth.
Radio Direction Radio beacons were the first electronic aid to navigation. The basic
Finders value of the radio beacon system lies in its simplicity of operation and
its relatively low user costs, even though the results obtained may be
somewhat limited. The Radio Direction Finder (RDF) is a specially
designed radio receiver equipped with a directional antenna. The
antenna is used to determine the direction of the signal emitted by a,
shore station, relative to the vessel. A radio beacon is basically a
short-range navigational aid, with ranges from 10 to 175 nautical miles.
Bearings can be obtained at greater ranges, but they are usually of
doubtful accuracy and should be used with caution. When the distance
to a radio beacon is greater than 50 miles, a correction is usually applied
to the bearing before plotting on a Mercator chart. These corrections, as
well as information on the accuracy of bearings, plotting, and other
matters, are contained in DMA publication 117, Radio Navigational
Aids.
8-51
Chapter 9
Celestial Observations and Sight Reduction Methods
Introduction In this chapter you will learn the methods that are necessary to complete
a day’s work in navigation. These include several ways of finding
gyrocompass error, reducing sunlines and moonlines, finding latitude by
LAN or Polaris, and reducing sights of stars and planets.
We’ve already covered the basics of celestial navigation in chapter 6.

You may want to occassionally refer back to that material to have a
clearer understanding of this material. We will discuss the procedure
aspect of performing and reducing celestial observations only. As you
become more familiar with this subject, you are advised to increase your
knowledge by studying references such as Dutton’s Navigation and
Piloting and Bowditch Pub No. 9.
Determine gyrocompass error by azimuth of the Sun and Polaris, and

amplitude of the Sun.
Reduce sights taken on the Sun, Moon, stars, and planets using H.O.
229, Sight Reduction Tables for Marine Navigation, and the Nautical
Almanac.
Reduce sights taken on the stars using H.O. 249, Sight Reduction
Tables for Air Navigation and the Air Almanac.
Determining latitude by local apparent noon.
Plot celestial LOPs based on assumed positions.
Topic Page
Azimuth of the Sun 9-2
Azimuth by Polaris 9-11
Amplitude of the Sun 9-12
Celestial LOP 9-16
Using the Sextant 9-18
Altitude Corrections 9-19
Reducing Sunlines Using Pub 229 9-24
Plotting LOPs 9-28
Advancing LOPs 9-29
Reducing Sights using Pub 249 9-32
Latitude by LAN 9-36
9-1
Methods For Finding Gyrocompass Error
Introduction There are three celestial methods used by QMs for finding gyrocompass
error. They are:
Azimuth of the Sun

Azimuth of Polaris
In each case, you are required to gather data for use in computation.
This data may be in the form of sights from the sextant, time in GMT,
DR Lat. and Long., and so forth. For each celestial method, we will
begin with gathering the necessary data and then working the solutions.
Azimuth of the You must know the following values to determine gyrocompass errror
Sun by azimuth:
Gathering Data Time of the actual observation

Date of the observation
DR position at the time of observation
Azimuth (gyro bearing of the Sun)
Rule: Due to the elevation of the Sun, azimuths should be taken in

mid-morning or mid-afternoon.
Use the following table to gather the data to work the azimuth solution.
You must have a recorder present to mark and record the exact time of
the observation
Step Action
1. Obtain a time tick from WRN-6 or chronometer with a
stopwatch.
2. Break out and place the azimuth circle on the gyro repeater
closest to the Sun.
3. Align the Sun in the reflecting mirror in a manner so that the
rays reflect back through the prism housing and onto the
compass card.
4. When each spirit level is leveled, mark the time and record the
reflected gyro bearing from the compass card to the nearest
0.1°. Note: This is a difficult procedure in heavy seas;
however, if the azimuth circle is not level, errors will occur.
5. Repeat steps 4 and 5 a minimum of three times.
9-2
Azimuth of the Sun, Continued
Gathering Data Now that we have three good observations, we need only to find the DR
position for each obvservation to have the data we need to find the
azimuth of the Sun. We will work an example problem using OPNAV
strip form AZIMUTH BY PUB 229. For brevity, we’ll work on one
observation only. In actual practice, it’s faster to work out all three at
the same time by placing the strip form on the left and working the
three observations in the next three columns. The purpose of taking at
least three observations is to allow us to find errors when taking
observations and averaging gyro error. This process normally provides
the best results in determining total gyro error.
Besides the data from the observation, you’ll need the Nautical Almanac
and Pub 229 to solve the problem.
From the strip form and publication we will find out exactly what the
gyro bearing should read, then we will compare that value to the actual
gyro bearing from the observation. The result will be our gyro error.
Example For our example problem, we will assume that we have gathered the
Problem following data:
Date: 19 Nov 84
DR Lat.: 33° 37' N
DR Long.: 112° 39' E
ZT: 15h 42m 22s
Gyro Brg: 231.6°
On the following pages, you will find the page laid out with the blank
strip form on the left, the action steps in the middle, and the result on
the right.
9-3
OPNAV 3130/ ACTION Completed Strip

Azimuth by 229 Form
Date: Enter the date. 19 NOV 84
DR Posit Enter the DR position. 33°37'N - 112°39'E
Body Enter the name of the body observed. Sun
GMT Enter the time GMT. 07h42m22s
GHA(h) Enter the GHA hour value from the 288° 38.9'
Nautical Almanac (fig. 9-1)
Increment (m/s) Enter the minutes and seconds value from 10° 35.5'
the Nautical Almanac (fig. 9-2).
Total GHA Add GHA(h) and increments (m/s). 299° 14.4'
DR Long +E, -W Enter the DR Longitude, add east or 112° 39.0'E
(+ - 360° if needed) subtract west.
LHA LHA= Total GHA +E or -W DR Long. 51° 53.4'
Tab Dec Enter the tabulated declination for 07 hours S 19° 31.2'
on the Sun column from the Nautical
Alamanac.
n
d# / D Corr The d# is found at the bottom of the Sun +0.6 / +0.4
Dec column, in this case it is +0.6. It is
assigned a + because Dec is increasing
(0700= 19°31.2 0800= 19°31.8). You
MUST assign a + or - to the d#.
The D corr is found on the Increments and

Corrections page for 42m 22s. Look under
the v or d column for the d# (0.6) and
n n
record the Corr value (0.4). The D Corr
assumes the same sign as the d# .
n
True Dec Apply the D Corr to Tab Dec S 19° 31.6
DR Lat Enter the whole degree of latitude and N 33° contrary
same or contrary determine if it is named (N or S) as True
Dec In this case, Lat. is N and Dec is S.
so it is contrary.
Up to this point, we have worked the strip form to obtain three values, LHA,
True Dec., and DR Latitude. We now have everything we need to enter Pub
229. Pub 229 is entered using whole degrees of Lat., LHA, and Dec. only. We
will also interpolate the leftover values using Pub 229.
9-4
Figure 9-1. Nautical Almanac right-hand daily pages.
9-5
Figure 9-2. Nautical Almanac Increments and Corrections page.
9-6
Look at the left-hand column of the stip form below. Notice that you’ll find
values for Dec. Inc/Z Diff, Lat Inc/Z Diff, and LHA Inc/Z Diff. This is
where we enter the leftover values from our whole degrees of DR Lat,
Declination, and LHA. To do this, we must convert our leftover values into
tenths of degrees by dividing each by 60 and rounding to the closest tenth of
a degree. Finding Z Diff is a matter of inspecting Pub 229 (see figs. 9-3
and 9-4) in the following manner:
For Dec Inc/Z Diff note the values for the whole degree of dec that you entered the table
with and the next high dec, then find the difference. Here are the values for our example
problem: Dec 19° Z = 129.1 Dec 20° Z = 129.8. The difference between the values is 0.7.
Since the value is increasing between 19° and 20°, we assign it a positive value (+).
Repeat the same procedure for finding Z Diff for Latitude and LHA. In other words,
compare lat. 33° and lat 34°. Then compare LHA 51° and 52°.
OPNAV 3130/ ACTION Completed Strip

Azimuth by 229 Form
Tab Z Enter Pub 229 with entering arguments of 129.1
Lat 33°, LHA 51°, and Dee 19°. Make
sure that you enter on the portion of the
page that indicates LATITUDE
CONTRARY TO DECLINATION.
Follow 19° of Dee across the page to where
it falls under the 33° Latitude column and
record the value for Tab Z.
Dec Inc/Z Diff Dec. Inc (left) = 31.6' + 60 which = .53 0.5 / + 0.7
rounded to 0.5. Compares Z’s for Z Diff.
Dec Corr Multiply Dee Inc by Z Diff. + 0.35
Lat Inc/Z Diff Lat Inc (left) = 37.0' + 60 which = .62 0.6 / + 0.3
Lat Corr Multiply Lat Inc by Z Diff. + 0.18
LHA Inc/Z Diff LHA Inc (left) = 53.4' + 60 which = .89 0.9 / - 0.7
LHA Corr Multiply LHA Inc by 2 Diff. - 0.63
Dec Corr Drop the Dec Corr Down. + 0.35
Lat Corr Drop the Lat Corr Down. + 0.18
Total corr Add the LHA, Dec, and Lat Corr. - 0.10
We have now accounted for our leftover values and now can find the Exact Z.
9-7
Figure 9-3. Pub 229 sample page.
9-8
Figure 9-4. Pub 229 next higher LHA to find Z Diff.
9-9
Tab Z Drop the value from Tab Z. 129.1

Exact Z (-360) Apply the Total Corr to Tab Z (- 0.10). 129.0
Exact Zn On each page of Pub 229 are small notes that 231.0
state:
In N. Lat. if LHA is Greater than 180 then Zn= Z

if LHA is Less than 180 then Zn= 360-Z
In S. Lat. if LHA is Greater than 180 then Zn= 180-Z

if LHA is Less than 180 then Zn= 180+Z
Our Lat is N. and LHA is less than 180,

therefore Zn=360 - 129 or 231°.
Gyro Bearing Enter the gyro bearing from the observation. 231.6
Gyro Error Find the difference between Exact Zn and the 0.6 West
gyro bearing and name the error. If the gyro
bearing is less than the Exact Zn, the error is
easterly, if more than Exact Zn, it’s westerly.
Use this memory aid:
Gyro least - error east, Gyro best - error west.
We have now used the Sun to find the error on our gyrocompass. As stated
before, a greater degree of accuracy can be obtained by making several
observations and then working the solutions and averaging the results. This
may seem a bit tedious, however, you may work all observations at once.
This is easily accomplished by entering data in the strip form in stages.
Try this method. First enter GMT DR Lat, DR Long, GHA, Dec, and d#.
Next find Incements (m/s), LHA, and True Dec. Now find your leftover
values for Dee Inc, Lat Inc, and LHA Inc and enter Pub 229.
Once you have completed the solutions for all obsvervations, you can average
the results. Here’s an example:
Error 1 = .6 W Error 2 = .5 W Error 3 = .7 W for a total of 1.8 ÷ 3 = .6 W
9-10
Azimuth by Polaris
Azimuth by Polaris (the North Star) is always within about 2° of true north. The
Polaris true azimuth of Polaris is tabulated in the Nautical Almanac in the
Polaris Tables for northern latitudes up to 65°.
Gathering Information: The entering arguments for the Polaris Tables

are the LHA of Aries (GHA of Aries plus east longitude or minus west
longitude) and latitude (at intervals of 5°, 10° or 20°). An extract from
the Nautical Almanac Polaris azimuth table, which appears at the foot of
the Polaris Tables, is shown in figure 9-5. As you can see, the
interpolation can be done by visual inspection of the appropriate LHA
and latitude.
The normal use of Polaris for obtaining compass error is when your ship
is in the lower northern latitudes. This allows you to take a bearing on
Polaris using the telescopic alidade. Since the computation and
interpolation of azimuth by Polaris are relatively simple, we will not go
into step-by-step procedures in this text.
Figure 9-5. Extract from the Nautical Almanac Polaris Tables.
9-11
Amplitude An amplitude of the Sun or other celestial body can be used to

determine gyro error. An amplitude (A) is the arc of the horizon
between the prime vertical circle (the vertical circle through the east end
west points of the horizon) and the observed body. The prime vertical
circle may be true or magnetic depending upon which east or west
points are involved. If the body is observed when its center is on the
celestial horizon, the amplitude can be taken directly from table 27 of
Bowditch, Volume II.
Horizions The celestial horizon differs from the one you see (the visible horizon)
because it runs through the center of Earth. There are a lot of
computations that must be done to determine the celestial horizon of a
body, but for now we will just say that it is the horizon that a navigator
uses for all celestial computations.
When the center of the Sun is on the celestial horizon, its lower limb
(lower edge) is about two-thirds of the diameter of the Sun above the
visible horizon. When the center of the Moon is on the celestial
horizon, its upper limb (upper edge) is on the visible horizon.
Figure 9-6 shows the relationship of the visible horizon to the celestial
horizon. When planets and stars are on the celestial horizon, they are a
little more than one Sun diameter above the visible horizon.
Figure 9-6. The visible and celestial horizons.
9-12
Amplitude of the Sun, Continued
Labeling the The amplitude of a body is given the prefix E (east) if the body is rising
Amplitude and the prefix W (west) if the body is setting. Additionally, the
amplitude of a body is given the suffix N (north) if the body has
northerly declination and the suffix S (south) if it has southerly
declination.
Finding As discussed above, the amplitude of a body can be taken directly from
Amplitude of table 27 of Bowditch, Volume II, if the body is observed when its center
the Sun Using is on the celestial horizon. Since the Sun is most commonly used for
the Celestial amplitudes, it will be the topic of our discussion.
Horizion
Gathering Information: To observe the Sun when it is on the celestial
horizon, its lower limb must be about two-thirds of the diameter above
the visible horizon. You must know the Greenwich mean time (GMT)
of your observation to determine the Sun’s declination from the right-
hand daily pages of the Nautical Almanac, your DR Lat. at the time of
observation, and the true bearing of the Sun as observed using a
telescopic alidade.
Example The DR latitude of your ship is 51°04.6'N. The declination of the

Problem setting Sun was 19°00.4'N. Your true bearing (as observed by a
telescopic alidade) to the Sun was 300°.
From this known information, we can use table 27 of Bowditch to

determine the amplitude.
Figure 9-7 shows an excerpt from table 27. By inspection of figure 9-7,
you can see that you must enter the left-hand column with your ship’s
DR latitude. You can also see that the Sun’s declination is listed across
the top of the table. Since latitude 51° and declination 19° are closest to
our entering values, we determine that the amplitude of the Sun when it
is on the celestial horizon is 31.2°. Now that we have the amplitude,
what do we do with it? First of all, there are some basic rules that must
be applied that relate to our previous discussion of the assigned prefix
and suffix of an amplitude. Our amplitude was taken when the Sun was
setting, and its declination name is north. Using the rules for labeling
the amplitude, we label the amplitude as follows: W 31.2° N. We use
W because the Sun is setting and N because the Sun’s declination is N.
9-13
Figure 9-7. Excerpt from table 27.
9-14
Finding With the amplitude properly labeled, we can now follow another set of
Amplitude of rules to determine the azimuth.
the Sun Using
the Celestial Rules:
Horizion,
continued 1. Rising Sun with north declination, subtract the amplitude from 090°
2. Rising Sun with south declination, add the amplitude to 090°
3. Setting Sun with north declination, add the amplitude to 270°
4. Setting Sun with south declination, subtract the amplitude from 270°
By following the rules above, our amplitude can now be converted to an

azimuth as follows:
W31.2°N + 270° = 301.2°
Our true bearing to the Sun was 300°. Gyro error can be determined as
follows:
301.2° (azimuth)
300.0° (gyro bearing)
1.2 °E (gyro error)
We find the name of the error by using our memory aid
Gyro least - error EAST, Gyro best - error WEST.
Finding If the body is observed when its center is on the visible horizon, a
Amplitude Using correction from table 28 of Bowditch, Volume II, is applied to the value
the Visible taken from Bowditch’s table 27. Refer to table 28 for step-by-step
Horizion instructions.
9-15
The Celestial LOP
General You have seen how lines of position, obtained through bearings on
Information terrestrial objects, are used to fix a ship’s position in piloting. You
know that a line of position (LOP) is a locus of possible positions of the
ship. In other words, the ship’s position must be somewhere along that
line. A fix, by definition, is a relatively accurate determination of
latitude and longitude. In practice, this position is the intersection of
two or more lines of position; but often it is not the ship’s exact position
because you can always assume some errors in observation, plotting, and
the like.
The celestial navigator must establish lines of position by applying the

results of observations of heavenly bodies. A line of position obtained
at one time may be used at a later time. All you need to do is move the
line parallel to itself, a distance equal to the run of the ship in the
interim, and in the same direction as the run. Such a line of position
cannot be as accurate as a new line because the amount and direction of
its movement can be determined only by the usual DR methods. If two
new lines cannot be obtained, however, an old line, advanced and
intersected with a new one, may be the only possible way of establishing
a fix. Naturally, the distance an old line may be advanced without a
substantial loss of accuracy depends on how closely the run can be
reckoned.
In celestial navigation, as in piloting, you essentially are trying to

establish the intersection of two or more lines of position. A single
observation and the resulting LOP is insufficient to obtain a fix.
The most accurate method of obtaining a celestial fix is to take sights on

many bodies in a short time. For example, it is quite common to take
sights on six or more stars in a period of 15 minutes or less. Taking
sights on many bodies allows the observer to identify and throw out
LOPS with obvious errors.
Determining the You might be entitled to complain that much has been said concerning
LOP what an LOP tells you, but very little has been told about how you
determine it in the first place. We are coming to that part now.
The first item is to take on a heavenly body or bodies and then reduce
the sights. Reducing the sights taken gives you the information you
need to plot the LOP. The LOPS then gives you the resulting fix.
9-16
The Celestial LOP
Determining the Figure 9-8 illustrates the method used in establishing a single LOP by
LOP, continued observing a star. An assumed position (AP) is selected according to
certain requirements of convenience in calculating (described later).
Observation of a star provides sextant altitude (hs). Sextant altitude is
then corrected to obtain observed altitude (Ho). The star’s altitude from
the assumed position, called the computed altitude (Hc), and its azimuth
angle are determined from tables by a procedure you will soon learn.
The azimuth angle is then converted to azimuth. After selecting an AP,
draw the azimuth through the AP. Along the azimuth, measure off the
altitude intercept (difference between the observed altitude and the
computed altitude). At the end of this measurement, draw a
perpendicular line, which is the LOP. You must know whether altitude
intercept (a) should be measured from AP toward the body or from AP
measured away from the body. It is helpful to remember the initials
Ho MO To, if Ho is more toward. This means that if Ho is greater than
Hc measure altitude intercept (a) from AP toward the body. If Hc is
greater than Ho measure altitude intercept (b) from AP away from the
body.
Figure 9-8. Determining a LOP.
9-17
Using the Sextant
General The sextant is the instrument of chief importance in celestial navigation.

It is used to measure the altitude of a heavenly body above the visible
horizon. Sextant altitude is corrected for various factors to determine
the body’s true (or corrected) altitude above the celestial horizon.
Techniques Here are some techniques commonly used to take sights with the marine
sextant. It will always be necessary to find any index error prior to
taking sights; refer to chapter 8 to find index error.
Use the following step action table for the general steps to take sights on
the Sun. The steps for stars and planets are basically the same, except
you would omit steps 2 and 4.
Step Action
1. Hold the sextant level with the horizon and determine index
error.
2. CAUTION: Set shade filters in place now, or eye burns
may result.
3. Aim the sextant to a point on the horizion directly below the
Sun.
4.
IF... THEN...
the Sun is rising Move the index arm slowly outward
from the 0° position until the Sun’s
lower limb is just below the horizon.
the Sun is setting Move the index arm slowly outward
from the 0° position until the Sun’s
lower limb is just above the horizon.
5. Swing the arc. This means to gently move your hand grasping
the sextant handle in a small upward arcing motion. Up to the
left, then back to the right. You will see the reflected image of
the Sun arc back and forth.
6. Give the recorder a standby to mark (marking the exact time of
the sight). Continue swinging the arc while turning the
micrometer drum slightly until the lower limb of the Sun
touches the horizon. At that exact moment, mark the time of
the sight and record the sextant altitude.
9-18
Altitude Corrections
Altitude Of the following five altitude corrections, the first three apply to
Corrections observations of all celestial bodies. The last two corrections are
applicable only when the observed body belongs to the solar system.
Figure 9-9 illustrates the correction problem. To obtain the true altitude,
you must correct the sextant altitude of any celestial body for:
1. Index error, which is the constant instrument error caused by a lack

of perfect parallelism between the index mirror and horizon glass when
the sextant is set at 0°.
2. Refraction, which is the deviation of rays of light from a straight

line caused by Earth’s atmosphere.
3. Dip of the horizon, which is the difference in direction between the

visible and celestial horizons caused by the observer’s height above the
surface.
If the observed body belongs to the solar system, corrections must also
be made for:
4. Parallax, which is caused by the proximity of bodies of the solar

system to Earth, resulting in a difference in altitudes measured from the
surface of Earth and from the center of Earth. Such an occurrence is not
true of other heavenly bodies whose distance from Earth is considered
infinite.
5. Semidiameter, which results from the nearness of bodies of the solar

system, which makes it necessary to consider the observed bodies as
appreciable size instead of as mere points of light; for example, stars.
The sextant altitude of such a body is obtained by bringing its disk
tangent to the horizon. Semidiameter correction must be applied to find
the altitude of the center.
9-19
Altitude Corrections, Continued
Figure 9-9. Sextant altitude corrections.
9-20
Corrections We will explore each altitude correction in detail. Applying altitude

Defined corrections is the starting point for reducing sights for any observation.
Name Description
Index Error The amount of instrument error in the sextant (covered in chapter 8).
Refraction Earth is wrapped in a blanket of atmosphere more than 50 miles deep.
Density of the atmosphere, like that of the ocean, increases with depth
and is greatest at the bottom, next to Earth’s surface. Light rays do not
follow a straight line when passing through atmosphere of different
densities, but are slightly bent into a gentle arc. This phenomenon is
called refraction. Refraction is defined as the deviation of light rays
from a straight line caused by their passage obliquely through mediums
of different density. The measure of refraction is the angular difference
between the apparent rays of light from an observed celestial body and
its true direction.
The effect of refraction is always to make the observed altitude greater

than the true altitude. Consequently, refraction correction is always
subtracted from the sextant altitude. Since refraction is caused by the
oblique passage of rays through the atmosphere, rays from a body in the
observer’s zenith, intersecting the atmosphere at right angles, are not
refracted. Maximum refraction occurs when a body is on the horizon,
amounting then to between 34 and 39 minutes of arc. The amount of
refractions depends on atmospheric conditions. Density of the
atmosphere varies with barometric pressure and temperature. Refraction
varies with density and also with the body’s altitude. Because refraction
varies with atmospheric conditions, and the effect of atmospheric con-
ditions at low altitudes cannot be estimated with complete accuracy,
observations of bodies below 10° should be regarded with suspicion.
Refraction has no effect on the azimuth of a celestial body because it
takes place entirely in the vertical plane of passage of the light rays.
Dip The higher an observer’s position is above the surface of the Earth, the
more he/she must lower (or dip) the line of vision to see the horizon.
Logically, then, all altitude observations must be corrected for the height
of eye. Refer again to figure 9-9, and you will see why a dip
correction is always subtracted.
Failure to correct for dip from a height of 10 feet will result in an error
of 3 miles in a line of position. From the bridge of the average
destroyer, the resulting error would be approximately 10 miles.
9-21
Name Description
Parallax Parallax is the difference between the altitude of a body, as measured
from Earth’s center, and its altitude (corrected for refraction and dip) as
measured from Earth’s surface. Altitude from the center of Earth is
bound to be greater than from the surface. Consequently parallax is
always a plus correction.
Parallax increases from 0° for a body directly overhead to a maximum

for a body on the horizon. In the latter instance, it is called horizontal
parallax (HP). Parallax of the Moon is both extreme and varied
because of its changing distance from Earth in its passage through its
orbit. Parallax of the Sun is small; parallax of the planets is even
smaller. For the stars, parallax is so tiny it is negligible.
Semidiameter The true altitude of a body is measured to the center of that body.
Because the Sun and Moon are of appreciable size, the usual practice is
to observe the lower limb. Therefore, semidiameter correction must be
added. It follows, then, that if the upper limb of either body is
observed, the semidiameter correction is subtractive. Semidiameter
correction amounts to about 16 minutes of arc for either the Sun or
Moon. Stars are considered as points, and they require no semidiameter
correction. When observing a planet, the center of the planet is visually
estimated by the observer, so there is never a semidiameter correction.
Remarks In concluding the subject of altitude corrections, remember that some

tables for altitude corrections (the Nautical Almanac, for example)
combine two or more of the corrections for refraction, parallax, and
semidiameter.
The correction for height of eye (dip) appears in a separate table for use
with all bodies. Index error, which is impossible to include in such
tables, should always be determined, recorded, marked plus or minus,
and applied before any of the tabulated corrections.
9-22
Strip Forms The OPNAV Strip Form 3530/30; H.0 229; Nautical Almanac are used
to reduce sights for stars, planets, the Sun, and the Moon. The altitude
corrections for each are the same except an additional correction is
required for the Moon and planets. Reducing sights using this strip
form is a process that can be broken down into the following stages:
Stage Description
1. Applying altitude corrections to find Ho (height observed).
2. Using GMT to find LHA to enter Pub 229 with.
3. Finding True Dee to enter Pub 229 with.
4. Entering Pub 229 to find total corrections to apply to Ho to find
Hc (height computed) Intercept, and Zn.
Steps to Follow Use the following table to find Ho for any celestial body. Since we will
to Find Ho be working several example problems, refer back to this table to find
Ho.
Strip Form Example problem to find Ho Complete

Pub 229 Naut Strip
Alm Form Pub
Action 229 Naut
Alm
Body Enter the symbol of the body. SUN
GMT Enter the GMT of the actual sight. 09 15 38
IC Enter the value of the index correction. - 1.0
D Enter the dip correction (height of eye) from - 6.9
the inside cover of the Nautical Almanac.
Sum Total the IC and D correction. - 7.9
hs Enter the uncorrected sextant altitude from the 25° 46.9'
sight.
ha Apply the sum to hs. 25° 39.0'
Alt Corr Use ha to enter the altitude correction tables of + 14.3’
the Nautical Almanac.
Add'l Corr Add any additional corrections for the Moon or N/A
Moon Hp/corr planets.
Ho Apply altitude and add'l corr to ha. 25° 53.3'
9-23
How to Reduce a Sunline Using Pub 229
Gather As with any celestial observation, you must gather data to reduce to an
Information LOP. With a sextant and recorder you will need the following:
date/GMT of sight, DR position, sextant altitude (hs), height of eye of
the observer, and IC correction.
Procedure For our example we will use the following:
Date: 31 March 1984 GMT: 09 15 38

Lat: 36° 32.8'N Long: 018° 10.0' W
hs: 25° 46.9’ IC: - 1.0
Hgt of Eye: 50 ft
After applying altitude corrections we have determined Ho = 25° 53.3'.
We can now use the Pub 229 strip form to complete the process of
reducing; at this point we have completed stage 1. We can move on to
the next stage of finding LHA.
Notice that to find LHA, we follow the same steps as we did for our
azimuth of the Sun problem only slightly different. Here’s the key
difference. We want to arrive at an even number LHA. To do this, we
will use an assumed longitude. This step will help us in interpolation
later in this problem. There is a catch though; the following rule must
be adhered to when finding an assumed longitude.
Rule: The assumed longitude used as an assumed position must be

within 30' of the original DR longitude.
Trick of the trade: When finding your assumed longitude, simply drop
the minutes of total GHA down, then add the whole degree of longitude
that is within 30' of the DR longitude. Look at our example problem
where we dropped the 52.2' down from the total GHA. If we were to
use the 18° from the original DR long. of 18° 10.0, which would be 18°
52.2' it would be more than 30', so we changed the 18° to 17° and all’s
well.
Let’s begin working our problem on the next page.
9-24
How to Reduce a Sunline Using Pub 229, Continued
OPNAV 3130/30 ACTION Completed Strip

Pub 229 Naut Alm Form
Ho Apply altitude corrections to find. 25° 53.3'
GHA(h) Enter the GHA hour value from the 313° 57.7'
Nautical Almanac.
the Nautical Almanac.
Total GHA Add GHA(h) and Increments (m/s). 317° 52.2'
v/v corr ENTER SHA for stars or planets only. STARS and PLANETS
SHA ONLY
a Long (+E, -W) Enter the assumed DR longitude to arrive at 17° 52.2'W
(+ - 360° if needed) an even degree of LHA, add east and
subtract west.
LHA LHA= Total GHA + (v/v or SHA for star 300° 00.0'
and planets) +E or -W DR Long.
Tab Dee Enter the tabulated declination for 07 hours N 4° 17.3'
on the Sun column from Nautical Almanac.
n
d# / D Corr The d# is found at the bottom of the Sun +0.6 / +0.3'
Dee column; in this case it is +1.0. It is
assigned a + because dec is increasing.
The D corr is found on the Increments and

Corrections page for 15m38s. Look under
the v or d column for the d# (1.0) and
n n
record the Corr value (0.4). The D Corr
assumes the same sign as the d#.
n
True Dec Apply the D Corr to Tab Dec N 4° 17.6'
DR Lat Enter the whole degree of latitude and N 37° same
same or contrary determine if it is named (N or S) as True
Dec. In this case lat. is N and Dee is N, so
it is same.
We have finished stages 2 and 3 and can move on to our final stage.
9-25
HOW to Reduce a Sunline Using Pub 229, Continued

Pub 229 Naut Alm Form
Dec Inc /d Dec Inc = True Dec min. only / d = d from 17.6 / +38.1
Pub 229 entered with whole degrees of
LHA, Dec, and Lat. (See fig. 9-10.)
Tens / DSD Enter from the Pub 229 interpolation tables + 8.8
located on the inside of the front and back
cover. (See fig. 9-11.)
Units / DSD corr Same as above. + 2.4
Total Corr Total of tens and units. + 11.2
Hc (Tab) Enter from Pub 229. 26° 07.5'
Hc (Comp) Apply Total Corr to Hc (Tab). 26° 18.7'
Ho Drop Ho down from the top of the form. 25° 53.3’
a Subtract the higher value of either A 25.4
Hc(Comp) or Ho from the other. In this
case, Ho is subtracted from Hc(Comp).
The A means away. We will fully explain

Towards and Away when we plot the LOP.
Z Enter from Pub 229. Apply the rules for 2 105.8
just as with our azimuth problem.
Zn LHA is greater than 180 so Zn = Z. 105.8
We have now completed the sight reduction solution for a sunline. The goal
was to obtain an LOP. Where is the LOP you ask? Everything we need is
right here. We will use the Zn (true bearing), a (intercept), and assumed
position to plot our LOP. Let’s move on to that task right now.
9-26
How to Reduce a Sunline Using Pub 229, Continued
Figure 9-10. Excerpt from Pub 229.
Figure 9-11. Interpolation table from the inside cover of Pub 229.
9-27
Plotting One or More LOPs
Procedure Follow the steps in the table and refer to the accompanying figures to
plot LOPs.
Step Action
1. Plot the AP (assumed position). This is the whole degree of
latitude and the assumed longitude. In our example problem
this would be Lat 37° 00.0' N Long 017° 52.2' W.
2. Lay off the azimuth line (Zn) from the AP toward or away
from the body, depending on whether the observed altitude
(Ho) is greater or less than the computed altitude (Hc).
3. Measure in the proper direction, along the azimuth line, the
difference between the observed and the computed altitude in
miles and tenths of miles. This is the value of a or intercept.
4. Draw a line at the extremity of a, perpendicular (add 90° to Zn)
to the azimuth line. At the time of observation, this
perpendicular line is the LOP.
5. Label the LOP with the time of observation and the name of
the observed body.
Figure 9-12. Plot the LOP.
9-28
Advancing LOPs
Advancing Several methods may be used to advance a LOP. The most common
LOPs method consists simply of advancing the AP in the direction of and for
the distance of the run, as shown in figure 9-13, and drawing the new
LOP.
Figure 9-13 illustrates a situation where the AP was advanced parallel to

the course line for the distance run, and a new LOP was plotted from its
new position. The new LOP was necessary because the same AP would
have produced an LOP that would have intersected the course line
beyond the limits of the chart. In this illustrative case, it is unnecessary
to draw the first dashed construction on the chart.
The manner of advancing LOP from sights of the Moon, Venus, and
Sirius (previously illustrated) to obtain an 1815 fix is seen in figure
9-14.
9-29
Advancing LOPs, Continued
Figure 9-14. A fix from several LOPs.
Three lines of position by observation, like those obtained in piloting, do

not always intersect exactly. Quite often a triangle is formed. If one or
more of the LOPs must be advanced, the triangle is likely to be larger.
Frequently, the center of the triangle is assumed to be the fix.
If, however, one or more lines have been advanced, more weight may be
given to a line that has not been advanced, or to a line that the navigator
has more confidence in; for example, favoring a first magnitude star
over a third magnitude star. In figure 9-14, note that the plots are made
from three separate APs, using the same assumed latitude but different
assumed longitudes.
9-30
Reducing Stars, Planets, and the Moon Using Pub 229
Procedure for The steps to follow to reduce stars and planets are nearly the same steps
Stars and that we used to reduce our sunline. The only differences are that in both
Planets cases when finding LHA, we must add the value of sidereal hour angle
(SHA) to the total GHA to find LHA. Also, in the altitude correction
tables for stars and planets there is an additional correction listed for
some planets that must be added.
Procedure for Once again the steps for the Moon are the same as our sunline except
the Moon that the v and HP corrections must be added. These are additional
altitude corrections. The v correction is always +. The HP correction
for the nearest whole hour of GMT is selected. The v correction is
found on the appropriate increments minutes and seconds page in the
same manner as the d correction. If the upper limb of the Moon is
observed, an additional correction (Add’l Corr) of -30' is made.
9-3 1
Reducing Sights Using Pub 249
General HO Pub 249, Sight Reduction Tables for Air Navigation and the Air
Almanac, can also be used to reduce sights. This method of sight
reduction is used by some navigators; however, the degree of accuracy is
slightly less than sight reduction by Pub 229.
Procedure Once again, you would have to gather information to reduce; that is,
GMT, sextant altitude, and so on.
For our example problem, we will use the following data:
Date: 30 March 1985 GMT: 06 26 21

Lat: 36° 40.1'N Long: 017° 31.6' W
hs: 40° 33.6' IC: + 0.8
Hgt of Eye: 50 ft

H.O.249 Air Alm Form
Body Enter the name of the body. REGULUS
GMT Enter time of sight. 06h 26m 21s
IC Enter the index correction. + 0.8
D Enter the dip correction (hgt of eye 50ft) - 7.0
using the altitude correction table from the
Air Almanac. (See fig. 9-16.)
Ro This is the refraction correction from the - 1.0
Air Almanac. (See fig. 9-17.)
SD
ha
Total Corr (sum) Total of IC, D, and R o. - 7.2
hs Enter the sextant altitude. 40° 33.6'
Ho Apply altitude corrections to find. 40° 26.4'
9-32
Reducing Sights Using Pub 249, Continued
Figure 9-16. Marine sextant altitude correction from the Air Almanac.
CORRECTIONS TO BE APPLIED TO SEXTANT ALTITUDE

REFRACTION
To be subtracted from sextant altitude (referred to as observed altitude in A.P. 3270)
Figure 9-17. Excerpt from refraction correction tables of the

Air Almanac.
9-33
Reducing Sights Using Pub 249 , Continued
Figure 9-18. Excerpt from the daily pages of the Air Almanac.
Figure 9-19. Excerpt from Pub 249, Volume I.
9-34
Reducing Sights Using Pub 249, Continued

H.O.249 Air Alm Form
GHA(h) Enter the GHA hour value of Aries from 282° 35.1'
the Air Almanac to the nearest 10 minutes.
(See fig. 9-18).
the interpolation tables of the Air Almanac.
Total GHA Add GHA(h) and Increments (m/s). 284° 10.6'
+ - 360 (if needed)
a Long (+E, -W) Enter the assumed DR longitude to arrive at 17° 10.6'W
an even degree of LHA, add east and
subtract west.
LHA LHA= Total GHA + (v/v or SHA for stars 267° 00.0'
and planets) +E or -W DR Long.
a LAT Enter the assumed latitude. 37°N
Hc Enter Pub 249 volume I, with the whole 40° 23.0'
degree of LHA for REGULUS, record Hc
and Zn (last block). (See fig. 9-19.)
Ho Drop down Ho from above. 40° 26.4'
a Find the difference between Hc and Ho T 3.4'
(remember to use Ho MO To). In this
example, Ho is more than Hc, so it’s
named T for towards.
Zn Enter the Zn (true bearing). 264°
As you can see, using Pub 249 to determine a celestial LOP is a quick
process compared to using Pub 229. Keep in mind that some amount of
accuracy is lost.
9-35
Latitude by Local Apparent Noon (LAN)
Time of The purpose of knowing ahead of time the exact time of meridian
Meridian passage (the Sun directly overhead) of the Sun is to allow the observer
Passage and recorder to arrive on the bridge a few minutes early. A latitude line
from LAN is very useful. It is often used along with two morning
sunlines to establish a noon celestial running fix. We will again be
using a strip form to complete our sight reduction. First, we will find
the time of meridian passage, then we will work the LAN solution. For
our example problem, we will use the following data: Date: 30 March
84, DR Lat: 36°36.1'N, DR Long: 19° 22.3'W.

LAN Form
DR Long Enter the DR longitude. 19° 22.3'W
STD Meridian Enter the standard meridian. 15
d long (arc) Find the difference between STD Mer and 4° 22.3'
DR Long.
d long (time) Convert arc to time using the arc to time + 17 Min
page in the Nautical Almanac.
LMT Mer Pass From the daily pages in the Nautical 1204
Almanac for the given date, enter the time
of meridian passage (bottom right of page).
ZT LAN (1st est.) IF... THEN... 1221
west of the Add d long (time)

standard meridian to LMT Mer Pass.
east of the Subtract d long

standard meridian (time) from LMT
Mer Pass.
Rev.DR Long Enter revised DR. 19° 22.3'W

STD Meridian Enter the standard meridian. 15
d long (arc) Find the difference between STD Mer and 4° 40.0'
DR Long.
d long (time) Convert arc to time. +19
LMT Mer Pass Enter LMT for Mer Pass. 1204
ZT LAN (2nd est) Add time to LMT Mer Pass. 1223
9-36
Latitude by Local Apparent Noon (LAN), Continued
Taking Sights to Up to this point we have learned how to find the time that the Sun
Observe LAN should be directly overhead. Now we need to know how to observe
LAN. We will discuss two methods. The first is called following to
maximum altitude; the second is called numerous sights.
Following to The oldest method of determining meridian altitude of the Sun, and the
Maximum one used most commonly, is known as following to maximum altitude.
Altitude It is recommended because of its adaptability to various conditions, and
because its use develops an insight into how the altitude varies near the
time of apparent noon.
At approximately 10 minutes before watch time of LAN, the observer

contacts the Sun’s lower limb with the horizon in the sextant. He/she
then swings the sextant from side to side, and adjusts it until the Sun,
seen moving in an arc, just touches the horizon at the lowest part of the
arc. This procedure is known as swinging the arc, which was described
earlier in this chapter.
As the Sun continues rising, a widening space appears between its lower
limb and the horizon. By turning the micrometer drum, the observer
keeps this space closed and maintains the Sun in contact with the
horizon. The change in altitude becomes slower and slower, until the
Sun "hangs". While it is hanging, the observer swings the sextant to
make certain of accurate contact with the horizon. He/she continues the
observations until the Sun dips, which is a signal that the Sun is
beginning to lose altitude. The sextant then shows the maximum
altitude attained.
9-37
Numerous The method of taking numerous sights is a modification of the

Sights maximum altitude method. It is useful under conditions where heavy
seas, clouds, and the like may make steady observation impossible.
Well before watch time of LAN, the observer begins taking a series of
altitudes. Their number depends on the difficulties of the situation and
the possible error in computed time of transit. He/she reads off the
altitudes to a recording assistant, turning the tangent screw slightly after
each observation to make sure that the next altitude is an independent
sight. Observations are discontinued when the altitude definitely shows
signs of decreasing.
Under favorable conditions, even a series of skillfully taken observations

may show an occasional erratic deviation from the normal gradual rise
and fall. After sights showing a radical difference from the preceding or
succeeding series are discarded, however, the hang should become
evident, and it should be possible to judge the maximum altitude. The
figure selected will probably be less than the altitude shown in one
observation and more than that below it. The result should give latitude
with an error no more than 1'. This reading is considerably more
accurate than could be obtained by a single sight under the conditions
described.
Finding As you now know, you must first obtain a sight of the Sun when it’s at
Latitude maximum altitude and the time of observation. With this and a DR
position, we can reduce the sight to find latitude; now we can work the
second part of our strip form.
9-38
9-39

LAN Form
89° 60' Enter 89° 60.0'. 89° 60.0
HO (-) Enter Ho. 57° 26.3
Z Dist Subtract Ho from 89 60.0. 32° 33.7’
True Dec Enter True Dec. N 3° 58.3
Lat Use the following rules for making the 36° 32.0'
declination correction:
IF... THEN...
Lat and Dec are of Lat = Z dist - Dec
different names
Lat and Dec are of Lat = Dec - Z dist
same names and Lat
is less than Dec
Lat and Dec are of Lat = Z dist + Dec
same names and Lat
is greater than Dec
Time 12h 21m 00s
Closing Celestial navigation requires skill gained through experience. This

Remarks chapter has given you the basic knowledge required to meet the
minimum requirements of the Quartermaster occupational standards.
This is just the tip of the iceberg; you should strive to perfect your
celestial skills. In the event of a large scale war, you may find that all
electronic means of obtaining a fix have been knocked out. It’s
important that electronic fixes are compared to celestial fixes whenever
possible. Remember, the prudent navigator uses all available means to
accurately fix the ship’s position along the intended track.
Quartermasters should study sources other than this RTM to gain

additional knowledge on celestial navigation. Dutton's Navigation and
Piloting is a excellent reference on this material.
9-40
Chapter 10
Weather Observation
Introduction The people who "go down to the sea in ships" fight a continuous close
battle with the elements that make up the weather. A mariner’s watch
of weather conditions is of greater importance than it is to most people
ashore. Accurate weather forecasting may not be as vital now as it was
in the days of the sailing ships, but situations still arise when the safety
of a ship and the lives of its crew depend on the evasive action taken to
avoid the full fury of a storm. Even when actual safety is not
considered, possible damage to the ship’s boats and gear must be
minimized by extra security measures taken well in advance of an
approaching storm.
The action taken by ships may be based on the latest weather

information compiled and broadcast by the appropriate Naval
Oceanographic Center. The oceanographic centers base their predictions
largely upon the reports of weather conditions received from ships at
sea. An intelligent weather report from a ship can be made only by a
person capable of accurately observing and (to some extent) interpreting
weather conditions. Aerographer’s mates are charged with this duty, but
not all ships carry them. On a ship that doesn’t have an Aerographer’s
Mate aboard, the weather observation duties are the responsibility of the
Quartermasters. This chapter, then, is concerned with the weather and
the way it is observed and reported.
Measure, convert, and record barometric pressure.

Determine apparent wind, relative wind, and true wind using
anemometers or visual estimation.
Identify cloud types and match them with their correct heights.
Measure temperature, dew point, and relative humidity.
Convert temperature to Celsius or Fahrenheit.
Observe and report weather conditions using form CNOC 3140/8.
Describe weather conditions associated with fronts.
Recommend course of action to evade storms.
10-l
Topics
Topic Page
The Atmosphere 10-3
Circulation of the Wind Upon Earth 10-4
Cloud Formations 10-6
Cloud Characteristics 10-8
Atmospheric Pressure 10-11

Pressure Areas 10-13
Frontal Systems 10-15
Wind 10-19
Temperature, Dew Point, and Relative Humidity 10-26

Weather Observation and Reporting 10-30
10-2
The Atmosphere
Composition The atmosphere (air) is a mixture of independent gases. Near the

surface of Earth, the percentages by volume of the various constituents
are approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 1% argon, and traces of
other gases such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen, neon, and helium. Water
vapor, which has been omitted from the foregoing list, is found in
relatively small but widely varying amounts; 1% of the total atmosphere
may be taken as the average figure. The quantity of water vapor present
is much greater in equatorial regions than it is in polar regions and
greater over the ocean than over land. The atmosphere has definite
weight, called atmospheric pressure, and is measured by an instrument
called a barometer.
Changes in the Large-scale changes in temperature, pressure, and water vapor content of
Weather the atmosphere cause changes in the weather. Warm air is lighter in
weight and can hold more water vapor then cold air. Moist air with a
temperature of 50°F is lighter than drier air of the same temperature
because water vapor is lighter than air. Cold or heavy air has a
tendency to flow toward and take the place of warm or lighter air; and,
as the air begins to move, other forces come in to play, making the
movement of air masses and weather rather complex. You can readily
see that temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure are all factors
in considering the weather.
10-3
Circulation of the Wind Upon Earth
The Basics The following paragraphs deal with the general (surface) circulation with
prevailing winds and nearby permanent pressure systems of belts. (See
fig. 10-1). In the Northern Hemisphere, the circulation is clockwise
about high-pressure areas (called anticyclones) and counterclockwise
about low-pressure areas (called cyclones). The reverse is true in the
Southern Hemisphere. At times, confusion arises from the meaning of
wind direction. Wind is always named by the direction from which it is
blowing.
The Doldrums The equatorial belt of light and variable winds between the northeast
tradewinds of the Northern Hemisphere and the southeast trade winds of
the Southern Hemisphere is called the doldrums, or the intertropical
convergence zone.
The doldrums may vary in position. They tend to move north and south
of the Equator with the Sun, though more of the area is generally
located slightly north of the Equator. In the doldrums, the temperatures
are high and the wind convergent (a net inflow of air into the area),
which causes greater rainfall.
Figure 10-1. General circulation of air.
10-4
Circulation of the Wind Upon Earth, Continued
The Tradewinds The tradewinds are found just north and south of the doldrums.
Whenever the doldrums are absent in some part of the equatorial region,
the tradewinds of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres converge,
causing heavy rain squalls. A feature of the trade belt is the regularity
of the systems, especially over the oceans. The wind blowing above and
counter to the trade is called the ANTITRADE.
Horse Latitudes The areas of the subtropical high-pressure cells, where the winds are
light and variable are about 30°N to 40°N and 30°S to 40°S. They are
called the horse latitudes. Fair weather is characteristic of this region,
due to the descending air. The pressure decreases outward from this
area, and the prevailing westerlies are on the poleward side, with the
tradewinds on the equatorial side.
Prevailing The prevailing westerlies, which are on the poleward side of the
Westerlies tradewinds are persistent through the midlatitudes. In the Northern
Hemisphere their direction at the surface is from the southwest, and in
the Southern Hemisphere from the northwest. This is a result of the
deflection caused by the Coriolis force as air moves poleward. The
Coriolis effect is the apparent force exerted by the rotation of Earth.
The front zone lies poleward of the prevailing westerlies.
Polar Region In the polar cells, polewards of the polar front zone, the surface winds
Winds are known as the polar easterlies (polar northeasterlies at the North Pole
and southeasterlies at the South Pole). They move the northeast in the
Northern Hemisphere and from the southeast in the Southern
Hemisphere. They are very shallow due to the low temperatures and are
overlain by the westerlies. This circulation pattern is temporarily
disrupted by the migratory pressure systems in all areas but returns to
the original pattern.
10-5
Cloud Formations
The Basics The atmosphere always contains, in greater or smaller amounts, tiny particles,
such as dust from roads, desert sand, plant pollen, salt particles from oceans,
and factory smoke. These fragments are hygroscopic nuclei, the term means
particles that readily condense moisture. A cloud is merely a mass of
hygroscopic nuclei that has soaked up moisture from the air.
The heat generated by the Sun’s energy causes earthbound moisture to

evaporate (turn into water vapor). Water vapor is lighter than air; thus, it rises.
If the air it passes into is cold enough, the vapor condenses; that is, it turns
back into moisture. The water droplets that result from this process cling to
the hygroscopic nuclei. Many of these water-soaked nuclei bunched together
form a cloud. Fog is the same in principle, but it’s a cloud on the ground.
Changes in atmospheric conditions account for the many different shapes of

clouds and for their presence at various altitudes. Formations of clouds give
clues concerning the existing forces at play in the atomsphere. That’s why you
must keep an accurate record of cloud genera (types).
Cloud Etage With respect to clouds, the atmosphere is broken down into three layers
or etages. In the middle latitudes or temperate region, the low etage is
from the surface to 6,500 feet; the mid etage, from 6,500 feet to 18.500
feet; and the high etage, from 18,500 feet on up to near 45,000 feet (fig.
10-2). The limits of the etages are generally lower in the polar regions
(mid etage, from 6,500 to 10,000 feet and high etage from 10,000 to
25,000 feet) and higher in the tropics (mid etage from 6,500 to 20,000
feet and high etage from 20,000 to 60,000 feet).
The low-etage cloud may be cumuliform, such as the cumulus genera or

cumulonimbus (identified by their size and extent of development);
stratiform, such as the stratus; or have mixed characteristics, such as the
stratocumulus. The mid-etage cloud genera are mostly identified with
the prefix alto. The mid etage contains the cumuliform clouds, such as
altocumulus, and the stratiform clouds, such as altostratus and
nimbostratus. The high-etage cloud genera contain the prefix cirro.
Cumuliform clouds in this etage are called cirrocumulus, while
stratiform clouds are called cirrostratus. Another form of cloud found
only in the high etage is the cirriform clouds that are the normally thin,
wispy or hairlike ice-crystal clouds that can be defined as neither
cumuliform nor stratiform, but are simply called cirrus clouds.
Take a moment to study figure 10-2, which shows many of the cloud genera
and their associated heights above ground.
10-6
Cloud Formations, Continued
Figure 10-2. Cloud genera and associated heights.
10-7
Cloud Characteristics
High-Etage Cirrus (CI) clouds are detached clouds of delicate and stringy
Clouds appearance, generally white in color, without shading. They appear in
the most varied forms, such as isolated tufts, lines drawn across the sky,
branching featherlike plumes, and curved lines ending in tufts.
Cirrus clouds are composed of ice crystals; hence their transparent

character depends upon the degree of separation of the crystals. Before
sunrise and after sunset, cirrus clouds may still be colored bright yellow
or red. Being high-altitude clouds, they light up before lower clouds
and fade out much later. Cirrus clouds often indicate the direction in
which a storm lies.
Cirrocumulus (CC) clouds, commonly called mackerel sky, look like

rippled sand or like cirrus clouds containing globular masses of cotton,
usually without shadows. Cirrocumulus clouds indicate that a storm
probably is approaching.
Cirrostratus (CS) clouds are a thin whitish veil that does not blur the
outlines of the Sun or Moon but gives rise to halos (colored or whitish
rings and arcs around the Sun or Moon; the colored arcs appear reddish
on the inside edges). A milky veil of fog (thin stratus) and altostratus
are distinguished from a veil of cirrostratus of similar appearance by the
halo phenomenon, which the Sun or Moon nearly always produces in a
layer of cirrostratus. The appearance of cirrostratus is a good indication
of rain.
Mid-Etage Altocumulus (AC) clouds are a layer (or patches) composed of flattened
Clouds globular masses, the smallest elements of the regularly arranged layer
being fairly small and thin, with or without shading. The balls or
patches are usually arranged in groups, lines, or waves. Sometimes a
corona (similar to a halo but with the reddish color on the outside edges)
may be seen on the altocumulus. This cloud form differs from the
cirrocumulus by generally having larger masses, by casting shadows, and
by having no connection with the cirrus forms.
Altostratus (AS) looks like a thick cirrostratus, but without the halo
phenomena, the altostratus is a fibrous veil or sheet, gray or bluish in
color. Sometimes the Sun or Moon is obscured completely. At other
times they can be vaguely seen, as through ground glass. Light rain or
heavy rain may fall from a cloud layer that is definitely altostratus.
10-8
Cloud Characteristics, Continued
Low-Etage Nimbostratus (NS) clouds are a dark gray-colored amorphous

Clouds (shapeless) and rainy layer of cloud. They are usually nearly uniform
and feebly illuminated, seemingly from within. When precipitation
occurs, it is in the form of continuous rain or snow, but nimbostratus
may occur without rain or snow. Often there is precipitation that does
not reach the ground, in which case, the base of the cloud may extend
into the low-cloud family.
Stratocumulus (SC) clouds are layer or patches of clouds composed of

globular masses or rolls. The smallest of the regularly arranged
elements are fairly large. They are soft and gray with dark spots.
Stratus (ST) clouds are a low, uniform layer of clouds, resembling fog,
but not resting on the ground. A veil of stratus gives the sky a hazy
appearance. Usually, only drizzle is associated with stratus. When there
is no precipitation, the stratus cloud form appears drier than other
similar forms, and it shows some contrasts and some lighter transparent
parts.
Cumulus (CU) clouds are dense clouds with vertical development.

Their upper surfaces are dome-shaped and exhibit rounded projections,
and their bases are nearly horizontal. Stratocumulus clouds resemble
ragged cumulus clouds in which the different parts show constant
change. Strong updrafts exist under and within larger cumulus
formations. In fact, cumulus clouds, like other forms of vertically
developed clouds, are caused by updrafts.
Cumulonimbus (CB) clouds are heavy masses of cloud, with towering

vertical development, whose cumuliform summits resemble mountains or
towers. Their upper parts leave a fibrous texture, and often they spread
out in the shape of an anvil.
Cumulonimbus clouds are generally associated with showers of rain or

snow, and sometimes produce hail. Thunderstorms are always
associated with cumulonimbus. The bases of the cumulonimbus may be
anywhere from 1,600 feet to 6,500 feet. Although you would rarely see
all types at any one time in nature, quite frequently you may observe
two or three layers of clouds of different types at one observation.
10-9
Cloud Characteristics, Continued
Fog Fog at sea is frequently formed through the process known as advection
(the transport of an atmospheric property solely by the mass motion of
the atmosphere). If warm air that passed over warm water moves to an
area where the water is colder, fog is likely to develop in the latter
region. The temperature of seawater is fairly uniform within a large
area and accounts for fog that often lasts for many days and nights at
sea.
The great fog banks of the North Atlantic, as well as those around the
Aleutians, demonstrate what can happen when two adjacent bodies of
water have markedly different temperatures. In the vicinity of
Newfoundland, warm air that has passed over the warm Gulf Stream
quickly turns to fog when it strikes the inshore current of very cold
water that flows southward along the coastline. Off Alaska, the same
situation prevails when the air from over the warm Japanese stream
(Kuroshio) comes in contact with the cold southward-flowing waters of
the Bering Sea (Oyashio).
Along coastlines special conditions may exist. Onshore winds blow

warm, moist air inland from the ocean. The waters adjacent to the coast
are sometimes colder than those farther offshore. At night an onshore
wind lays down a thick blanket of fog that often extends some distance
inland. The fog hangs on until the Sun heats up the land enough to
evaporate the droplets or until an offshore wind drives the fog blanket
away.
How can you tell when a fog is on the way or in the process of
formation? The difference between the temperature shown by the wet
bulb and the dry bulb of the psychrometer, called wet-bulb depression, is
your fog indicator.
In general, fog forms when the depression is 4° or less. A continuous

record of the wet-bulb depression serves as a fairly reliable predictor of
fog.
10-10
Atmospheric Pressure
Weight The layer of atmosphere that surrounds us exerts a pressure of

approximately 15 pounds per square inch at sea level. The weight of the
atmosphere varies with the presence of water vapor as well as with
temperature and height above sea level. Variations in atmospheric
pressure are measured by an instrument called a barometer.
Aneroid The aneroid (dry or no fluid) barometer (ML-448) (fig. 10-3) needs no
Barometer correction except for altitude. It contains a small metallic cell, called a
syphon cell, which encloses a partial vacuum. As atmospheric pressure
increases, the syphon cell contracts; as pressure decreases it expands.
Figure 10-3. Aneroid barometer.
As the syphon cell expands and contracts, it communicates motion to an

indicating pointer on a graduated scale.
The aneroid barometer (ML-448) is graduated in inches of mercury and

in millibars (mb). Both inches and millibars are measurements of the
weight of the atmosphere at a given time or point. The average
atmospheric pressure at Earth’s surface is 29.92 inches or 1013.2
millibars.
10-11
Atmospheric Pressure, Continued
Aneroid Figure 10-4 shows comparative

Barometer, readings on the inch and millibar
continued scales.
The aneroid barometers normally

can be read no closer than 0.01
inch.
Aneroid barometers are the standard

pressure-indicating instrument
aboard ship and the type of
barometers that Quartermasters will
encounter most frequently.
Barometers should be calibrated

yearly in accordance with PMS.
Figure 10-4. Inches and millibars.
Significance of A chart of the atmospheric pressure over a large area of Earth as surface
Pressure at any given time tells you which way different air masses (an air mass
is a large body of air that has common temperature and humidity
characteristics) are moving. Some air masses originate in the cold polar
regions; some, in the tropics. By the time they reach you, these air
masses, called maritime air masses, have moved from vast bodies of
water. Others, called continental air masses, have grown up over more
or less dry land. Air masses carry along with them the temperature and
humidity characteristics of the areas they crossed. Where distinctly
different air masses touch, the boundary between them is called a front
and is marked by cloudiness and precipitation.
10-12
Pressure Areas
Frontal Weather The atmosphere can produce

weather in other ways, of
course, but frontal weather,
which is often violent, can be
predicted from a chart of
pressure systems. Figure 10-5
shows different types of
pressure areas on a weather
chart.
Figure 10-5. Sample weather map.
Isobars Atmospheric pressure is reported in millibars. One atmosphere equals

14.696 pounds per square inch, a bar equals slightly more than 0.98
atmosphere, and a millibar equals 1/1000 of a bar.
On weather charts, pressure is usually indicated in millibars

(fig. 10-6). The lines shown in the figure are drawn through points of
equal pressure and are called isobars.
Figure 10-6. Shapes of isobars.
10-13
Pressure Areas, Continued
Isobars, Usually, isobars are drawn for equal intervals of pressure (every 4
continued millibar for example), and frequently, isobars do not pass through
reporting stations. Isobars never join or cross. Some may run off the
chart, but others may close, forming irregular ovals that define the areas
of highest and lowest pressure (fig. 10-6). Air (wind) flows from high-
pressure areas to low-pressure areas. The strength of the wind depends
upon two factors: the amount of difference in pressure and the distance
of the high-pressure area (high) from the low-pressure area (low). These
two factors combined are called pressure gradient. The greater the
gradient, the stronger the wind. Thus, isobars can give a rough
indication of the amount of wind. The closer an isobar is to another, the
greater the amount of wind in that area. In figure 10-7, the isobars
represent pressures of 992.2 mb, 987.1 mb, and 982.1 mb.
Figure 10-7. Isobaric patterns.
The spacing and shape of isobars are seen in figure 10-6, which also
shows how complete isobars are formed. Isobars are always smoothed-
out curves, usually making irregular ovals around the high- or
low-pressure center.
Refer to figure 10-7 and you can see that only part of each isobar (the
upper right portion of the oval) appears in the diagram. In this pressure
system, that area of greatest pressure is at the system’s center. This
high-pressure area is also called a high or an anticyclone. If the
pressure is 992.2 mb at Chicago, 987.1 mb at Moline, and 982.1 mb at
Logan, the area of lowest pressure is in the vicinity of Logan. This area
would be a low, or a cyclone.
10-14
Frontal Systems
Warm Fronts Active warm fronts are generally located in pressure troughs on surface
charts. See figure 10-8. The troughs are not as pronounced as those
observed with cold fronts; therefore, other meteorological elements are
used as follows in locating warm fronts accurately:
1. Pressure tendencies. Pressure usually falls for an appreciable length

of time before the front passes. Normally it is steady after passage.
The tendencies in advance of the front are therefore a steady or unsteady
fall. A warm frontal passage is usually indicated by a tendency.
2. Wind. The wind in advance of a warm front in the Northern

Hemisphere is usually from the southeast, shifting to southwest after
passage. The wind speed normally increases as the front approaches.
The wind shift accompanying a warm front is seldom as abrupt as with
a cold front.
3. Cloud forms. Warm fronts are nearly always well defined by

tropical stratified clouds. They are generally cirrus, cirrostratus,
altostratus, nimbostratus, and stratus with the cirrus appearing as much
as 1,000 miles before the actual surface passage. The cloud types that
form after passage of the warm front are typical of the warm air mass.
4. Precipitation. The precipitation area of warm fronts extends about

300 miles in advance of the surface front. Precipitation occurs mainly in
the form of continuous or intermittent rain, snow, or drizzle. However,
when the warm air is connectively unstable, showers and thunderstorms
may occur in addition to the steady precipitation.
5. Temperature and dew-point chances. Abrupt temperature changes,

like those characteristic of cold fronts, do not accompany the warm
frontal passage. Instead, the temperature change is gradual. It starts
increasing slowly with the approach of the front and increases slightly
more rapidly with the passage. The dew point is normally observed to
rise as the front approaches, and a further increase follows the frontal
passage when the air in the warm sector is of maritime origin.
6. Visibility and ceiling. The visibility and ceiling are normally good
until the precipitation begins. Then they decrease rapidly. Dense fog
frequently occurs in advance of a warm front. These conditions improve
after the front passes.
10-15
Frontal Systems, Continued
Figure 10-8. Designation of fronts on weather maps.
10-16
Cold Fronts Cold fronts are normally located in well-deemed pressure troughs
whenever there is a marked temperature contrast between two air
masses. In most cases, a careful analysis of the isobars indicates the
correct position of the pressure trough that contains the front. This
method of isobaric analysis is frequently the only possible means of
locating fronts over ocean areas or regions of scanty surface reports.
Other indications of cold fronts can be classified as prefrontal, frontal, or
postfrontal as follows:
1. Pressure tendencies. In advance of cold fronts, the tendency

characteristic is usually indicated by a steady or unsteady fall. The
isobars of falling pressure in advance of the front usually form an
elongated pattern approximately parallel to the front. After passage of
the front, the tendency generally shows a steady rise.
2. Wind. With the approach of the front, the wind is normally from
the south or southwest in the Northern Hemisphere, veering to parallel
the front. At the passage, the wind generally shifts abruptly to the
northwest. Very gusty winds frequently occur at the frontal passage and
usually after passage.
3. Cloud forms. In advance of cold fronts, the cloud types are typical
of the warm air. Towering cumulus, cumulonimbus, stratocumulus, and
nimbostratus are associated with the passage. After passage, these cloud
forms may prevail for several hundred miles with the slow-moving cold
front. Very rapid clearing conditions are associated with the
fast-moving cold front after passage. Well back in the cold air in both
types of cold fronts, the only clouds normally found are fair-weather
cumulus.
4. Precipitation. Showers and sometimes thunderstorms occur as a

cold front passes. Continuous precipitation is observed for some hours
after passage of a slow-moving cold front. Showers and thunderstorm
activity of short duration will occur with the passage of a fast-moving
cold front, followed by very rapid clearing conditions.
10-17
Cold Fronts, 5. Temperatures. Temperature is relatively high before passage. After

continued passage, the temperature decreases very rapidly with slow-moving fronts.
Such a rapid temperature change does not accompany the passage of
fast-moving cold fronts; the real temperature change is usually seen
some distance (as far as 50 to 100 miles) behind the front.
6. Dew point. The dew-point temperature generally helps to locate

fronts. This is especially true in mountainous regions. A drop in the
dew point is observed with the passage of either type of cold front.
7. Visibility and ceiling. With the approach and passage of a

slow-moving cold front, the visibility and ceilings decrease and remain
low after the passage until well within the cold air. Fast-moving cold
fronts are preceded by regions of poor visibility and low ceilings due to
shower activity. After passage of fast-moving cold fronts, the ceiling
rapidly becomes unlimited and the visibility unrestricted.
Occluded Fronts Because the occlusion is a combination of a cold front and a warm front,
the resulting weather is a combination of conditions that exists with
both. Ahead of a cold-type occlusion, as the warm air is lifted, all
clouds associated with a warm front are found producing typical
prefrontal precipitation extensively for a distance of 250 to 300 miles.
Typical cold front weather is found throughout the narrow belt in the
vicinity of the surface front. However, the thunderstorms are less
intense than those of a typical cold front. This occurs because the
source of warm air has been cut off from the surface, and the energy
received comes only from the warm air trapped aloft. Instability
showers often follow the cold front when the cold air is unstable. The
most violent weather occurs on the upper front for a distance of 50 to
100 miles north of the northern tip of the warm sector. After the
occlusion has passed, the weather usually clears rapidly. The weather
associated with the warm occlusion is very similar to that of the cold
occlusion. With the warm occlusion, the high-level thunderstorms
associated with the upper cold front develop quite some distance ahead
of the surface front (up to 200 miles), and the weather band, in general,
is wider (up to 400 miles). The air behind the cold front, flowing up the
warm frontal surface, causes cumuliform-type clouds to form. In this
area, precipitation and severe icing may be found. The most violent
weather occurs on the upper front, 50 to 100 miles north of the northern
tip of the warm sector.
10-18
Wind
Determining For reasons previously discussed in this chapter and for reporting
Wind Speed purposes, Quartermasters must be able to compute the direction and
velocity of the true wind. The following discussion contains instructions
for observing the wind speed and direction and computing true wind
data (speed, direction, gusts, and shifts).
The movement of the ship affects the wind speed observed by both the
ship’s anemometers and hand-held anemometer. Relative wind is
measured from the direction and speed from which the wind appears to
be blowing. Relative wind seldom coincides with true wind because the
direction and speed of the relative wind are affected by the ship’s
movement. For example, if your ship is heading north at 10 knots and
true wind is blowing from the south at 10 knots, there appears to be no
wind at all. In another example, your ship is heading north and the
wind appears to be blowing in on the port bow, but the true wind is
actually coming from the port quarter. In our discussion of the different
types of wind, refer to the following explanations:
1. True wind (TW) is the velocity and direction from which the true
wind is blowing.
2. Relative wind (RW) is the velocity and relative direction from which
the wind is blowing in relation to ship’s heading (SH).
3. Apparent wind (AW) is the velocity and true direction from which
the relative wind is blowing. For example, if your ship is heading
090° and the relative wind is blowing in on your starboard bow (045°) at
15 knots, the apparent wind is from 135°T at 15 knots. The formula for
apparent wind is: AW=RW+SH.
Wind speed (including gusts and squalls) is observed, computed, and

reported in nautical miles per hour (knots) to the nearest whole knot.
Since the true wind must be computed, the chance of committing an
error is increased. The wind data reported is used as criteria for wind,
storm, and high seas warnings. Care must be taken whenever computing
true wind. Wind data can be observed using the following methods
listed in order of preference:
1. Installed anemometer
2. Hand-held anemometer
3. Visual estimation
10-19
Wind, Continued
Installed An installed anemometer (fig. 10-9) is an instrument fixed somewhere

Anemometers aloft, usually at the masthead. The wind blows on a propeller attached
to one end of a wind vane that pivots. The whirling propeller revolves a
spindle, communicating with a synchro repeater on a pilothouse or chart
house bulkhead. Figure 10-10 shows one type of synchro repeater.
The upper dial of the repeater is graduated in lo-degree intervals and

shows the relative direction from which the wind is blowing. In this
illustration the direction is about 287°. The lower dial indicates the
relative wind speed (true wind speed when the ship is stationary). The
wind speed dial in the illustration shows about 87 knots. This reading
means that the force exerted by 87 knots of wind is whirling the
anemometer propeller.
When using an installed anemometer, always compare the readings

observed with the wind conditions as they appear outside. If two
anemometers are installed, make sure that the windward anemometer is
used.
Figure 10-9. Installed anometer.

Figure 10-10. Synchro
repeater.
10-20
Wind, Continued
Using Hand If anemometers are not installed or not working properly, or for some
Held reason the readings are in doubt, the hand-held anemometer should be
Anemometers used. The Wind Measuring Set AN/PMQ-3 (fig. 10-11) is a hand-held
anemometer. It is a combination wind direction and speed indicator. It
indicates direction to 360° and speed from 0 to 60 knots. The speed
indicator has two scales, graduated from 0 to 15 knots and 0 to 60
knots. To use the hand-held anemometer, you choose an observation
point on the windward side of the ship, as far upwind as possible. For
example, if the wind is from the stem, go aft; if it is from the bow, go
forward. If possible, stand facing parallel to the ship’s centerline and
into the wind.
When you use the hand-held anemometer, follow the instructions given
in the table below.
Step Action
1. Grasp the instrument by the handle and hold it in an
approximately vertical position at arm’s length with the sight at
eye level.
2. Aim the instrument at an imaginary point on the horizon. This
is done by aligning the center of the slot in the front of the
sight with the center of the strip between the two slots on the
rear sight. Aim it as you would a gun.
3. Press and hold the vane locking trigger. Note the reading on
the 0 to 60 (upper) scale on the wind speed indicator. If the
wind speed reading is less than 15 knots, press the range
selecting trigger on the side of the housing, and observe the
reading on the 0 to 15 scale. Care must be taken not to take
the first reading on the 0 to 15 scale because a wind speed in
excess of 15 knots may damage the anemometer.
4. Note the motion of the wind vane as it moves between the
extremes, and release the vane locking trigger when the vane is
in the position of the predominant (average) wind direction.
Carefully lower and tilt the anemometer and note the wind
direction reading on the direction dial. If the wind is being
observed facing aft, the direction must be converted in relation
to the bow. Add 180° for directions from 0° through 90°.
Subtract 180° for directions from 270° through 360°.
5. Maintenance of the AN/PMQ-3 should be in accordance with
PMS instructions.
10-21
Wind, Continued
Hand held
Anemometer
Figure 10-11. Hand-held anemometer.
10-22
Wind, Continued
Visual True wind direction may be observed by noting the direction from which
Estimation of ripples, small waves, and sea spray are coming. The direction is most
Wind Speed easily found by sighting along the wave crests and turning 90° to face
the advancing waves. The observer is then facing the true wind
direction. You may estimate the true wind speed by noting the sea
condition and referring to table 10-1, which is based upon the following
assumptions and should be considered in arriving at an estimated true
wind speed:
1. The wind has been blowing at a relatively constant speed and

direction for the time indicated by table 10-1.
2. The fetch area (an area where waves are being generated by the
wind) is unlimited.
Some factors that cause the speed estimation of the wind to be too low
are as follows:
1. Winds have increased rapidly.
2. Offshore winds within the sight of land.
3. Moderate or heavy precipitation smoothing the sea surface.
4. Swell waves from varying directions.
Some factors that will cause the speed estimation of the wind to be to
high are as follows:
1. Waves running into shallow water.
2. A decreasing wind speed. The relative wind speed and direction can
be estimated by observing the ship’s flag, smoke, and rigging on the
windward side of the ship. Table 10-1 should be used when you are
using this method. Notice that this method gives you the relative wind
and should be used only when the surface of the sea cannot be observed.
10-23
Wind, Continued
Table 10-1. Estimating True Wind By Sea Conditions
10-24
Wind, Continued
Calculating Once the relative wind direction and speed have been observed and the
True Wind ship’s course and speed recorded, the true wind can be computed. The
Using the True True Wind Computer (CP 264/U) is the quickest and easiest method.
Wind Detailed instructions on the use of the True Wind Computer can be
Computer found in Chapter 10 of the Manual for Ship’s Surface Weather
Observations, NAVOCEANCOMINST 3144.1C.
Calculating The use of the maneuvering board (MB) is by far the most accurate
True Wind method of determining true wind. The MB uses exact vectors to
Using the establish apparent wind and own ship’s speed. The use of vectors
Maneuvering makes this method more precise.
Board
Information on calculating true wind can be found in Pub 217
Maneuvering Board Manual, therefore it will not be duplicated here.
Pub 217 also contains solutions for finding desired wind, closest point of
aproach, and several other vector solutions that are invaluable to the
Quartermaster assisting the officer of the deck.
Computation No matter which method of computation is used to derive the true wind
Check direction and speed, the observer should check the results by applying
the following rules:
Rule 1: The true wind direction is always on the same side of the ship
as the apparent wind direction, but farther from the bow than the
apparent wind direction.
Rule 2: When the apparent wind direction is abaft the beam, the true
wind speed is greater than the apparent wind speed.
Rule 3: When the apparent wind direction is forward of the beam, the
true wind speed is less than the apparent wind speed.
10-25
Temperature, Dew Point, and Relative Humidity
Measuring You probably don’t need to be told that a thermometer is an instrument

Temperature for measuring temperature. Generally speaking, it is a glass tube of
small bore in which either alcohol or mercury expands and contracts
with the rise and fall of the temperature of the surrounding medium.
Most Navy thermometers are mercury-filled and practically all of them
use the Fahrenheit (F) scale, where the freezing point of water is 32°
and its boiling point is 212°. Temperature in meteorology, however, is
sometimes expressed according to the Celsius (C) (formerly Centigrade)
scale, where the freezing point of water is 0° and its boiling point is
100°.
You may be required to convert a Fahrenheit reading to Celsius, or vice

versa. Knowing that 32°F = 0°C, to change a Fahrenheit reading to
Celsius, you first subtract 32° and then multiply the remainder by 5/9.
Example: Say you want to change 41°F to Celsius. Subtracting 32°

from 41° gives 9°. Multiply 9° by 5/9, and you get 45/9, or 5°C.
To change from Celsius to Fahrenheit, simply reverse the procedure.

First multiply the Celsius temperature by 9/5, then add 32°. In the
previous example, to change 5°C back to Fahrenheit, first multiply it by
9/5, which gives you 45/5, or 9°. Adding 32” gives you 41°F.
You may also use the following formulas:
F = 1.8 × C + 32 (Multiply Celsius temp by 1.8, then add 32 to find

Fahrenheit)
C = F -32 divided by 1.8 (Fahrenheit minus 32, then divide by 1.8 to

find Celsius)
A thermometer must be read properly to obtain an accurate result. First,

if you must handle it, be sure that you do not touch the lower part of the
glass containing the alcohol or mercury, because the heat from your
body can affect the height of the mercury or alcohol column. Make
certain that the top of the column is level with your eyes; otherwise you
will be reading a higher or lower graduation than the one actually
indicated. The top of the column is in the shape of a curve called a
meniscus. It is the bottom of this curve that indicates the reading for an
alcohol thermometer; the top, for a Mercury thermometer.
10-26
Temperature, Dew Point, and Relative Humidity, Continued
Measuring Dew As already mentioned, the amount of water vapor the atmosphere can
Point and hold varies with the temperature. When the atmosphere contains all the
Relative water it can hold for a given temperature, the air is at the saturation
Humidity point or humidity is 100%. If it contains 50% of what it could hold at
that particular temperature, relative humidity is 50%. Relative humidity
and dew point are determined through the use of a psychrometer.
Using the Sling A psychrometer is simply two ordinary thermometers mounted together
Psychrometer on a single strip of material. The bulb of one thermometer is covered
by a water-soaked wick from which the water evaporates rapidly or
slowly, depending on the amount of water vapor in the surrounding
atmosphere.
Evaporation of water around the wet thermometer cools it. The amount
of cooling depends on the rate of evaporation. The reading on the wet
bulb is lower than the reading on the dry bulb except when the humidity
is 100%, at which time both readings coincide. The difference between
the wet-bulb and dry-bulb readings, when applied to tables developed
for that purpose, results in relative humidity and dew point temperature.
The dew point is the temperature to which air must be cooled at

constant pressure and constant water vapor content to reach saturation
(100% relative humidity). When air is cooled to its dew point
temperature, small water droplets condense on objects; that is, dew
forms.
A sling psychrometer (fig. 10-12) is sometimes used to speed up the

process of getting accurate wet-bulb and dry-bulb readings. The sling
psychrometer can be whirled around to rapidly bring the wet bulb into
contact with a great volume of air. This contact with air accelerates the
evaporation rate. The person using the sling psychrometer should face
the wind and should shield the instrument as much as possible from the
direct rays of the Sun. The whirling should be repeated until no further
change can be detected in the wet-bulb reading.
10-27
Figure 10-12. Sling psychrometer.
Figure 10-13. Electric psychrometer.
10-28
Electric The Electric Psychrometer ML-450/UM (fig. 10-13) is a hand-held

Psychrometer portable instrument that serves the same purpose as the sling
psychrometer. As a Quartermaster this will probably be the only type of
psychrometer that you use, since most ships do not carry the sling
psychrometer. Three D-size batteries furnish power to a self-contained
ventilation fan that aspirates the thermometer. The instrument also
contains a lamp for nighttime readings. When using the electric
psychrometer, select a shady area with no obstructions within 3 to 4 feet
and face into the wind. Hold the instrument at waist height with the air
intake pointing into the wind. Obtain the dry-bulb temperature first.
When the ambient (circulating) air temperature is 50°F, or above, it is
not necessary to energize the ventilation fan. The electric psychrometer
should be exposed to the ambient air for at least 5 minutes before you
read it. When no further decrease of the wet-bulb temperature is
apparent, read the wet-bulb.
Finding the Dew Use the psychrometer table 10-2 to compute the dew point. The Manual
Point for Ship's Surface Weather Observations (NAVOCEANCOMINST
3144.1C) contains complete tables. Take a dry-bulb temperature of 70°F
and a wet-bulb temperature of 60.5°F. The difference between the two
readings, 9.5°F, is called the wet-bulb depression.
Example: To compute the dew point, you enter the wet-bulb reading
(60.5°F). Go to the proper DEPRESSION column (9.5°F). Read the
dew point temperature (54°F) directly from the intersection of the
temperature row and the DEPRESSION column.
Table 10-2. Psychrometer Table
10-29
Weather Observation and Reporting
Observation Timely and accurate environmental observations are basic to the

development of meteorological and oceanographic forecasts in support of
fleet operations. Since the U.S. Navy may be committed to operations
anywhere in the world, global observations of meteorological and
oceanographic conditions are required. In remote areas (especially over
oceans), environmental data are extremely sparse.
Accordingly, observations from Navy ships are particularly vital. In

short, all ships at sea are required to take regular observations, but
where ships are steaming in company or in close proximity (within 10
miles), the OTC may designate one of the ships to report observations
for the group. Ships in port are required to continue regular weather
observing and reporting by electronic means unless there is a nearby
U.S. manned weather reporting activity.
In-port weather observing and reporting guard ship arrangements may be

used for groups of ships at the discretion of the senior officer present.
In such instances, the weather logs of exempted ships should bear a
notation of the guard ship(s) and effective dates/times. Additional and
special weather observations and reporting schedules that may be
required in support of fleet operations are issued in pertinent operation
plans and orders. Requirements for increased frequency of weather
reporting by ships at sea in specific areas, particularly in areas where
tropical disturbances are suspected or known to exist, should be issued
as necessary by the area or force commander.
Recording the All ships taking surface weather observations must use the form CNOC
Weather 3140/8. This form contains two code forms and is divided into two
sections, parts I and II.
Part I: Part I is the Ship Aviation Observation Code. This code is in

the aviation observation code format with additional ship and sea data
columns.
Part II: Part II is the Synoptic Code Message Format. It is

determined from analyzing data from part I. The data is transmitted via
radio message to the appropriate weather center.
10-30
Weather Observation and Reporting, Continued
Rules for CNOC 3140/8 is an official document and is the only record of weather
Using CNOC encountered by the ship. All entries must be neat and legible. Care
3140/8 should be taken to avoid writeovers and partial erasures that confuse the
legibility of the data entered. It is recommended that a folder or board
be devised to protect the form between observations. An original and
one duplicate of this form is required for each day’s observations. The
duplicate may be a rewritten copy, a carbon copy, or a suitable
photocopy of the original form. The duplicate should be retained for a
minimum of 1 year as part of the ship’s record. All entries should be
made with a black lead pencil (No. 2 or 2H) or an erasable ball-point
pen, if available.
Corrections may be made by erasing the erroneous data only if the data
has not been disseminated by any means (phone, radio, and message
transmittal). Erase the erroneous data from all copies of the form and
enter the correct data. When a carbon copy of the form is made, care
must be taken to prevent carbon smudges on the duplicate copy.
If an error is discovered in encoded data after it has been transmitted,

the erroneous data may not be erased. Using a red pencil, correct the
error by drawing a line through the error and entering the correct data
above it. Retransmit the observation with the corrections.
You must refer to the Manual for Ship’s Surface Weather Observations
(NAVOCEANCOMINST 3 144.1 Series) for step-by-step instructions on
how to complete each column. A new form must be started at 0000
GMT each day. The 2355-59 observation will be the first observation
of the new day. If the lines are filled in part I before the day is over,
continue the observations on a new form. Continue to make entries in
column 90 and part II on the first form.
In the following tables you will find an explanation for each column of
both parts I and II of CNOC 3140/8. The example figure provided
gives sample data from actual observations on part I and encoding for
part II. Use the table and figure together to learn about the information
contained within parts I and II.
10-31
10-32
Weather Observation and Reporting,
10-33
Column Column Explanation

Number Name
1 Type Either SA for hourly observation, or L for local
observation (OBS). OBS are required for aircraft
mishaps, collisions, man overboard.
2 Time The time of the OBS always in GMT, must be
recorded within 5 minutes, from 55 to 59 only!
3 Sky and The base of each layer of clouds and the type of
Ceiling sky cover associated with that layer. Always
drop the last two zeros for the height. 15 BKN
= 1500 feet and broken sky coverage at that
layer.
4 Prevailing This is the prevailing visibility reported to the
Visibility nearest nautical mile.
5 Weather Report items such as funnel clouds, hail, sleet,
and and fog.
Obstructions
6 Sea Level Sea level pressure in millibars, entered in ten,
Pressure units, and tenths. Enter 132 for 1013.2.
7 Temperature Enter the dry-bulb temperature from the
psychrometer.
8 Dew Point The nearest dew point temperature to the nearest
Temperature whole degree Fahrenheit.
9 Wind The direction from which the TRUE wind is
Direction blowing.
10 Wind Speed Average wind speed at the time of OBS.
11 Wind Gusting or squalling if appropriate.
Character
12 Altimeter Station pressure reduced to sea level.
Setting
13 Remarks Operationally significant information.
15 Observers Self explanatory.
Initials
17 Station Pressure in inches.
Pressure
21 Total Sky Estimated total sky coverage by clouds or other
Cover obstruction reported in tenths.
10-34
Weather Observation and Reporting, Continued
Column Column Explanation

Number Name
(A) Position Abbreviated ship’s position.
(B) Course General direction of the ship’s course.
(C) Speed Ship’s speed.
(D) Seawater Seawater temperature reported to the nearest 0.1
Temperature Fahrenheit.
(E) Sea Waves, The duration in seconds from the crest of one
Period, and wave to the next and the average wave height.
Height Sea waves are caused by local wind conditions.
(F) Swell The direction, duration in seconds from the crest
Waves, of one wave to the next, and the average wave
Direction, height.
Period, and
Height
CNOC 3140/8 Part II is designed to allow transmission via radio message of encoded
Part II weather information. The step-by-step instructions are printed in the
Manual for Surface Ship’s Weather Observations and will not be
reproduced here. This manual should be consulted each time an OBS
is made.
Additional Ship’s are required to submit encoded weather every 6 hours of GMT.
Reporting For example a message should be sent at 0000, 0600, 1200, and so on.
Requirements
If winds are greater than 33 knots, then messages must be sent with an
immediate precedence every 3 hours.
Additional As you may have guessed, weather, like navigation, is a complex subject
Information on which volumes have been written. The objectives of this chapter are
to prepare you to report the weather; however, senior QMs should
thoroughly acquaint themselves with all aspects of weather. The AG
series of TRAMANs is an excellent place to begin. Also Pub No. 9,
Bowditch, has comprehensive information about weather and the
mariner.
10-35
Chapter 11
The Ship’s Bridge
Introduction In this chapter you will learn about the ship’s bridge, where the
Quartermaster spends most of his or her time. We will put together
much of what you have learned previously in this book plus new topics.
The ship’s bridge is where all orders concerning the actions of the ship
are issued. While under way the officer of the deck (OOD) directs
every action. As Quartermaster of the watch (QMOW), you will be an
assistant to the OOD. You are responsible for knowing not only your
duties but also those of all bridge watchstanders and the operation of all
bridge equipment. In the last section of this chapter, the duties of the
QMOW will be described for each watch stood throughout the a day at
sea.
Objectives This material in this chapter will enable the student to:
Identify steering control consoles components.

Steer the ship from the bridge.
Steer the ship from after steering.
Steer the ship during special evolutions.
Describe the effects of wind and current on the ship.
Rig and verify combinations of navigational lights.
Describe the components of tactical messages.
Identify flags and pennants.
Encode and decode tactical signals.
Operate ship’s radars.
Prepare commanding officer’s night orders.
Maintain Ship’s Deck Log.
Determine and plot the ship’s position .
Maintain logbooks.
Maintain the DR track.
Maintain a plot in support of weapons.
Determine ship’s position in relation to PIM.
Compute estimated time of arrival.
Determine set and drift and make recommendations to the OOD.
Time celestial observations.
Provide input for ship’s position reports.
Render honors and ceremonies.
Report visual contacts.
11-1
Objectives Make recommendations based on Rules of the Road.

Read flaghoist display.
Set up the bridge for special evolutions.
Describe the duties of QMOW while at anchor.
Dress and full dress the ship.
Hold morning and evening colors.
Topic Page
Bridge Equipment 11-3
Ship’s Characteristics 11-7
Steering the Ship 11-11
Navigational Lights 11-15
External Communications 11-19
Bridge Watch Personnel 11-21
Relieving the QMOW 11-25
Commanding Officer’s Night Ordrer Book 11-26
The Ship’s Deck Log 11-27
General Duties of the QMOW 11-34
11-2
Bridge Equipment
Introduction As you might imagine, there are many pieces of equipment on any
ship’s bridge. Each ship class has installed equipment to enable that
ship to do its job. It would be almost impossible to describe each and
every piece of equipment that would be found on the bridge of a ship.
However, equipment that is normally found on all bridges will be
covered. As a QMOW, you are responsible for knowing how to operate
all equipment located on the bridge of the ship to which you are
assigned. This may seem to be a large tasking; however, as you
complete PQS for different watch stations on the bridge, you will gain
the required knowledge to operate the bridge equipment for your ship.
Steering Control The ship’s control console contains apparatuses for controlling the
Consoles (SCC) movements of a ship. Figures 11-1, 11-2, and 11-3 show three types of
ship control consoles in use aboard ships today. As you can see from
these figures, the ship control console’s physical appearance may differ
from ship type to ship type. On ships that have a ship control console
like those shown in figures 11-l and 11-2, the helmsman must also
complete PQS for ship control console operator. On the bridge of older
ships, like the one shown in figure 11-3, the helm, engine order
telegraph, rudder angle indicator, and steering gyro repeaters are all
located in the near vicinity of the helmsman, but at different locations on
the bridge.
On newer ships, the ship control console houses all the apparatuses for
steering the ship and for controlling its speed in one compact unit.
Additionally, on some ship consoles, like the one shown in figure 11-2,
you will find lighting, steering, and general alarm controls housed in the
ship control console.
Helm Unit: The helm unit for most ships consists of a wheel, rudder
angle indicator, rudder order angle indicator, and synchros that send
electrical impulses to the steering units located in the after steering
room.
Lee Helm: The lee helm unit may be located in the SCC or it may
stand alone near the SCC. In any case, it sends information to the
engine room to indicate the ship’s speed. In general, a speed order is
sent from the bridge and then the order is answered by the engine room.
11-3
Bridge Equipment, Continued
Figure 11-1. DD 963 class ship control console.
Figure 11-2. FFG-7 class ship control console.
11-4
Figure 11-3. Bridge of a destroyer, showing voice tube

in front of helmsman..
Steering Pumps: Most ships are equipped with a minimum of four

steering pumps located in the after steering room. The normal
configuration for running are pumps one and three or pumps two and
four. The pump units are run at 24-hour intervals and normally
switched on the midwatch. The controls for the steering pumps may be
located in the SCC. Figure 11-4 shows the port steering gear assembly.
11-4. Port steering gear.
11-5
Gyrocompass Repeaters: As you learned in chapter 2, there are

several gyro repeaters located on the bridge. In the SCC, there are
normally two such repeaters for the helmsman to steer the ship by. One
is called the master and receives its signal from the master
gyrocompasses. The other is called the auxiliary and it receives its
signal from the auxiliary gyrocompass. Also, the magnetic compass is
generally located directly behind the SCC where the helmsman can steer
by it, if necessary.
Shifting Steering Control: In emergency situations, steering control

may be shifted to after steering or the secondary conning station. As a
rule, whenever the ship is in restricted waters or conducting underway
replenishment, after steering will be manned by a master helmsman and
helm safety officer. If the helm unit on the bridge were to fail, the
helmsman could immediately shift steering control to after steering.
Step-by-step instructions for shifting steering control vary from ship to
ship. The engineering officer should be consulted for instructions.
SCC Alarms: There are several alarms that are located in or near the
SCC. Among these, the two most important are the loss of steering
alarm and the gyrocompass failure alarm. If either one activates, the
OOD should be notified immediately.
11-6
Ship’s Characteristics
Fundamentals of Before we can discuss the techniques used to steer a ship, you’ll have to
Shiphandling learn the basics of shiphandling. Use the following table and figure
11-5 to learn the terms associated with a ship’s characteristics.
Term Definition
Pivot Point A ship’s pivot point is a point on the centerline about which the
ship turns when the rudder is put over. The pivot point scribes the
ship’s turning circle.
A ship’s pivot point is nearly always located about one-third the

ship’s length from her bow when moving ahead, and at or near her
stern when moving astern. The location of the pivot point will
vary with ship’s speed. An increase in speed will shift the pivot
point in the direction of the ship’s movement.
Turning Circle A ship’s turning circle is the path followed by the ship’s pivot
point when making a 360 degree turn. The diameter of the turning
circle varies with rudder angle and speed. With constant rudder
angle, an increase in speed results in an increased turning circle.
Very low speed (those approaching bare steerageway) also
increases the turning circle because of reduced rudder effect.
Knowledge of the turning characteristics of one’s ship is essential

to safe shiphandling, particularly when in restricted waters.
Advance Advance is the amount of distance run on the original course until
the ship steadies on the new course. Advance is measured from the
point where the rudder is first put over.
Transfer Transfer is the amount of distance gained towards the new course.
Tactical Diameter Tactical diameter is the distance gained to the left or right of the
original course after a turn of 180° is completed.
Final Diameter Final diameter is the distance perpendicular to the original course
measured from the 180° point through 360°. If the ship continued
to turn at the same speed and rudder indefinitely, it would turn on
this circle. The final diameter is almost always less than the
tactical diameter.
11-7
Ship’s Characteristics, Continued
Term Definition
Standard Tactical Standard tactical diameter is the specific distance recorded in
Diameter tactical publications for each ship. It varies with each ship class.
Standard Rudder Standard rudder is the amount of rudder angle used to make the
ship turn in the standard tactical diameter. On most ships, this is
equal to 15°.
Angle of Turn Angle of turn is the angle measured from the point where the
rudder was put over to the point where the ship steadies on the
new course.
For example, if a ship is on course 300° and turns starboard to new

course 345°, the angle of turn is 45°.
Using Turn Bearing: Finding the angle of a turn is necessary for

using turn bearings. A turn bearing is a bearing from an ATON on
which the ship will put
STANDARD TACTICAL DIAMETER
the rudder over to AT 15 KNOTS REQUIRING
execute a turn. Every STANDARD RUDDER
ship maintains a tactical
Angle of turn Advance Transfer
characteristics folder, (degrees) (yards) (yards)
which contains advance
and transfer tables as 15 185 40
30 275 85
shown in table 11-1. 45 345 115
Advance and Transfer 60 390 190
75 445 270
tables are used to 90 500 375
determine turn bearings. 105 450 445
120 405 520
They are entered using 135 360 590
150 315 655
the angle of turn and 165 265 725
the ship’s speed. 180 205 800
Actual construction of 26NVM113
turn bearings will be Table 11-1. Sample from Advance and

covered in chapter 12. Tansfer Tables.
Drift Angle Drift angle is an angle at any point on the turning circle between
the intersection of the tangent at that point and the ship’s keel line.
Kick Kick is the swirl of water toward the inside of the turn when the
rudder is put over. Also, the momentary movement of the ship’s
stern toward the side opposite the direction of the turn.
11-8
Discussion When the rudder is put over in making a turn, the stem is forced away
from the direction of the turn. Because of momentum, the ship turns
very slowly from her original course for several lengths. She then
commences to gain ground in the new direction, moving sideways
through the water to a considerable degree. This naturally results in loss
of speed and is why, when a column turn is made, a vessel gains rapidly
on the ship ahead while that ship is turning, but loses this distance
during her own turn when the first ship completes her turn and steadies
on the new course.
Each ship should have available

on the bridge a folder of the
ship’s tactical characteristics. It
should be carefully studied by
all shiphandlers. Pertinent data
should also be available at other
stations concerned with ship
maneuvers, such as the combat
information center (CIC).
These tables are drawn up with
the ship making several turning
runs at different speeds and
using various rudder angles.
Table 11-1 is a sample advance
Figure 11-5. Turning circle.
and transfer table for a ship
making a turn at 15 knots, using standard rudder. Similar tables are
compiled for other rudder angles at the same and different speeds. The
time required to make the various turns may also be shown.
Acceleration At times, allowance must be made for the rate at which a ship increases
and and decreases speed. Another part of the tactical data folder, therefore,
Deceleration is the acceleration/deceleration table, of which a sample is given in table
Tables 11-2. Practical examples of it’s use follow.
Example 1: A ship is standing up a channel at 15 knots. The captain

desires to maintain speed as long as possible, but must pass an anchored
dredge at a maximum speed of 10 knots. Determine how far before
reaching the dredge a speed reduction should be commenced.
11-9
Acceleration From the deceleration table, it is determined that 1 minute is required to

and decelerate from 15 knots to 10 knots. Because the rate of deceleration is
Deceleration always constant between any two speeds, the average of these two
Tables speeds is the average speed of the ship during this time period. By
computation, 15 knots plus 10 knots gives an average speed, during 1
minute of deceleration, of 12 l/2 knots. Determination of average speed
is the crux of this problem. To compute the distance the ship will travel
in 1 minute at 12 l/2 knots, multiply 2,000 (yards) by 12.5 (knots) and
divide by 60 (minutes). The result is approximately 417 (yards).
Measure back 417 yards along the DR track from a point abeam the
dredge. This latter point is where it is recommended that turns for 10
knots be rung up on the engines.
Example 2: A ship is proceeding

through Ambrose channel at 10
knots. The navigator is informed
that 25 knots is L be ordered when
the ship clears the channel. One
computation is requested by the
OOD:
How far along the DR track will

the ship travel from the time 25
knots is rung up until she is making
that speed?
Because the ship is proceeding at

only 10 knots, a running tabulation
of speeds and times must be
considered. Going to the
acceleration part of the table,
compute the distance traveled in
three steps: 10 to 15, 15 to 20, and Table 11-2. Sample Acceleration
20 to 25. and Deceleration Table
11-10
Steering the Ship
Helmsman and In normal steaming conditions, the helmsman is normally a nonrated

Master Seaman from the Deck Department. However, only QMs qualified as
Helmsman master helmsman man the helm during situations where precise
shiphandling is required ( unrep, restricted waters, and special
evolution). Keeping a ship exactly on course can be a tough job,
especially in heavy seas. As you advance to higher paygrades, you will
be required to complete PQS and stand watch as helmsman and master
helmsman.
The following discussion will cover standard orders to the helm, effects
of wind and current, and steering the ship for special evolutions.
Note: Conning officers are usually assigned from the ranks of junior
officers. Increasingly, senior QMs are tasked with standing watch as
conning oficer and even OOD on smaller ships. The study of
shiphandling theory is highly encouraged. A excellent reference is
Crenshaw's Naval Shiphandling.
Standard Helm Rules:

Orders
The courses the helmsman steers must be ordered by the conning
officer. The helmsman should have the ship on course before he or
she surrenders the wheel to his or her relief. This does not apply to
master helmsman.
The words port and starboard are never used when giving orders to
the helmsman. When an order necessitates a change of rudder angle
to right or left, the direction of change is always stated, such as
right full rudder.
The helmsman always repeats all orders back to the conning officer,
as they were given (word for word). Standard orders to the
helmsman and their corresponding meanings are as follows:
Helm Order Action

RIGHT (LEFT) STANDARD Varies on different ships (usually 15° rudder). It is the
RUDDER designated number of degrees of rudder angle that causes the
ship to turn within a prescribed distance called standard
tactical diameter. You must find out what standard rudder is
on your ship.
RIGHT (LEFT) FULL Usually means 30° on the rudder angle indicator.
RUDDER
11-11
Steering the Ship, Continued
Helm Order Action

RIGHT (LEFT) HARD Normally equal to 35° of rudder.
RUDDER
COME RIGHT (LEFT) TO Means to swing the ship’s head in the direction stated and
148° steady it on the course given; in this example, 148°. The
order is frequently stated “COME RIGHT (LEFT) TO 148°."
STEER 190° Usually given for only a minor change of heading to the
number of degrees specified.
STEADY ON 225° States the course on which the ship’s head is to be steadied.
It is normally given while ship’s head is swinging. You may
use up to 30° of opposite rudder to steady the ship.
INCREASE YOUR Means to increase the rudder angle and is usually ordered
RUDDER when the conning officer wants the ship to move more
rapidly. May be given as a specific amount such as
increasing to right full rudder.
EASE YOUR RUDDER TO Signified to reduce the rudder angle. It may be given as
(SPECIFIED) DEGREES "EASE TO 15° (10° 20° RUDDER" or "EASE YOUR
RUDDER TO RIGHT 15)."
RUDDER AMIDSHIPS Means to put the rudder on the centerline; no rudder angle.
As a rule, this order is merely "RUDDER AMIDSHIPS!"
MEET HER Means to check the swing by putting on opposite rudder.
STEADY AS YOU GO Means to steady the ship on the course it is heading at the
time the order is given. If the ship is swinging at the time,
heading must be noted and the lubber’s line brought back to
and steadied on it as soon as possible. The order is also
stated as "STEADY," or "STEADY AS SHE GOES."
SHIFT YOUR RUDDER Commands you to change to the same number of degrees of
opposite rudder angle.
MIND YOUR RUDDER! A warning that the ship is going off the course because of bad
steering.
NOTHING TO THE RIGHT Given when the presence of some danger on one side or the
(LEFT) OF (SPECIFIED other makes it necessary to avoid a set in that direction.
HEADING)
KEEP HER SO Continue to steer the course you are heading. Usually given
after you state the course you are steering.
MARK YOUR HEAD A statement to the helmsman. He or she should give the
ship’s head at the time of the command, for example, "two
seven five, sir."
VERY WELL Reply of conning officer to helmsman, meaning that the
response is understood.
11-12
Techniques The helmsman must repeat distinctly, word for word, every order he or
she receives. This is done so the conning officer knows the helmsman
understands his or her command. To respond to an order such as
STEADY AS YOU GO, follow the repeating of the order with the
reply STEADY ON 110, or whatever the course was you marked when
you received the order. Do this once the ship steadies up.
As a master helmsman, you must know more about how your ship steers
than anyone else. Every ship handles differently. Many hours on the
helm will allow you to anticipate how the ship will react. Here are
some tips, which were gathered from senior Quartermasters concerning
steering the ship.
General Techniques: The first rule that you must follow is to pay
attention at all times! Many helmsmen have found themselves in a
world of trouble because they lost focus, and then chased the helm.
This is how ships become damaged (which the U.S. Navy frowns upon).
Never oversteer. Steering a ship is often a situation where less is more.

Always use the least amount of rudder necessary to maintain course. Be
patient, the ship will respond. A common mistake is to use more rudder
than needed to maintain course, which results in a snaking effect.
On the other hand, use the rudder when needed. Commands like
MEET HER and STEADY AS YOU GO warrant the use of rudder up
to 30°, if necessary. Other ships in formation judge another ship by the
way she makes her turns. Make sure your ship turns smartly. Quick
and precise maneuvers are the name of the game!
Find the weather helm: If you were to leave the rudder amidships (0°),
the wind, current, and even the ship’s list would put you off course.
Before relieving the helm, make a habit of observing the swell and wind
waves. Then, always ask what rudder combinations are currently being
used to maintain course. For example, if the wind and swell is hitting
the ship on the port bow at 45°, the stem will be pushed to the right.
This action could cause the ship to fall off course to the left. Knowing
this, you could imagine that some amount of right rudder will be
required to maintain course. When finding the weather helm, you are
actually looking for the amount of rudder that is a real time 0°.
The weather helm varies with the weather and currents. If it takes a
constant 2° of right rudder, then the weather helm equals 2° right, which
is the same as 0° with no wind or current.
11-13
During UNREP Steering the ship during underway replenishment is no simple task.
There are more factors to consider other than wind and current. When
two ships are alongside, a vortex effect is created. This vortex works
like a cushion between the two ships, normally pushing them apart
slightly. Also, when the rigs are tensioned, the ships are pulled together
slightly.
Close attention to keeping the ship exactly on course cannot be stressed

enough. Use the least amount of rudder to accomplish this. Often, the
master helmsman will be required to steer courses on 0.5 degrees such
as 010.5. While unreping .5° is the maximum deviation allowed from
ordered course. Also, ships alongside often make turns while rigs are
hooked up. This requires the ship on the outside of the turn to slightly
increase speed. This type of maneuver is normally completed in
5-degree increments until the final course is reached.
Prior to beginning a UNREP, the bridge watch team should go over

emergency procedures for loss of steering.
In Restricted Steering the ship in restricted waters requires precise shiphandling. As

Waters with UNREP evolutions, every effort must be made to stay exactly on
ordered course. Often the ship will be transiting narrow channels where
tidal currents may be strong. This is not much of a problem when the
bow is pointed into the current; however, a strong current from astern
can cause the bow to fall off course. This is especially true when the
ship’s speed is 10 knots or less.
During Special Special evolutions include general quarters, launching of amphibious

Evolutions craft, or whenever the OOD or navigator requires that the more
experienced master helmsman man the helm.
From After Steering the ship from after steering requires total concentration. This is
Steering due mainly to the fact that there is nothing to see and the trick wheels
used to move the rudders face towards the stem. If steering control is
lost on the bridge, steering control will be shifted to the after steering
helmsman. The after steering helmsman will receive orders directly
from the conning officer (relayed by the helm safety officer) or from the
rudder angle order indicator.
11-14
Navigational Lights
Rules of the According to the Rules of the Road, every ship is required to display
Road navigational lights. The Quartermaster is responsible for turning on the
ship’s running lights at sunset and during periods of reduced visibility
and for turning them off at sunrise.
Navigational The ship’s running lights consist of the forward mast light, the after
Light Panel mast light, the port and starboard side lights, and the stem light. A
typical running light control panel is shown in figure 11-6. Before
turning these lights on, you should test each light by pressing the test
button with all power switches on. Above the test button there are two
indicator lights. Each running light has a primary and a secondary
filament. When you are testing the lights and a red indicator light
comes on, this means the primary filament is burned out, and the light
should be replaced by an Electrician’s Mate. Under most conditions,
you should turn on all of the light switches, leaving the master switch
off. When you are ready to energize the lights at sunset, turn on the
master switch and all the ship’s running lights are energized at the same
time.
Figure 11-6. Running light control panel.
Special Lighting In addition to being familiar with the normal running light control panel,
Control Panel the Quartermaster must also be familiar with the operating of the special
lighting control panel. A description of the lights on the special lighting
control panel follows. Refer to figure 11-7.
11-15
Navigational Lights, Continued
Figure 11-7. Special light control panel.
NOTE: The panel position of the switches for the various lights may vary by ship type.
Name Description Energized When

1. Wake Light The wake light (white) for ships is Engaged in towing operations
installed on the fantail or afterpart of or whenever the wake needs to
the ship to illuminate the wake. It is be illuminated.
mounted so that no part of the ship is
illuminated. The fixture is watertight
and of tubular construction. The wake
light, like the running lights, has a two-
filament bulb with a primary and
secondary switch position on the control
panel.
11-16

2. Blinker The blinker lights are located on the Used as an alternative method
yardarms and are used for sending of sending flashing light at
flashing light. The blinker lights are night.
used with signal keys, which are
normally installed on the bridge and
signal bridge. The blinker light switch
must be in the ON position for the
signal key to be activated.
3. Aircraft The aircraft warning lights are 360° red From sunset to sunrise when
Warning lights. They are installed at the truck of your ship is at anchor or
each mast that extends more than 8 moored.
meters (26 feet) above the highest point
of the superstructure. Two aircraft When operating aircraft at
warning lights are installed if the one night.
light cannot be seen throughout 360°. If
two masts are tall enough to require
these lights but are less than 15 meters
apart, they will be installed only on the
higher mast.
4. Not Under The crank/switch controls a pair of red Not Under Command--When
Command/ lights that have multiple uses. The the switch is in the ON
Man lights are located 6 feet apart position, it turns on the red
Overboard (vertically) and mounted on brackets lights, which indicate that your
that extend abaft the mast or structure ship has had a breakdown.
and to port thereof. This mounting
arrangement permits visibility, as far as Man Overboard--When the
practicable, throughout the 360° arc. switch is continually turned ON
and OFF by use of the crank, it
causes the pair of red lights to
blink ON and OFF (pulsate),
indicating that your ship has a
man overboard.
11-17

5. Task The proper light signal to let other ships Whenever the ship is in a
know that your ship cannot easily situation where it cannot easily
maneuver is red-white-red. If you turn maneuver. For example, when
on the lights as you would to indicate a ship is alongside another ship
that your ship is broken down and add a taking on food, fuel, or ammo,
white light in the center, this will give it is involved in a task and
you the proper lights. The required cannot maneuver easily. Also
white light is mounted in the center of used when a ship is constrained
the Not Under Command/Man by its draft.
Overboard lights, and the controlling
switch is mounted on the bulkhead in
the vicinity near the special lighting
control panel.
6. Blue Stem The blue stem light is a light similar to Your ship is engaged in convoy
the white stem light the ship uses for or formation steaming during
normal running lights. periods of darken ship. It is
also used when engaged in
some forms of plane guard duty
during recovery/launch flight
operations.
7. Anchor Aft The after-anchor light is a 360° white From sunset to sunrise and
light mounted at the top of the flagstaff. during periods of reduced
visibility when your ship is at
anchor or moored.
8. Anchor The forward anchor light is a 360° Same as above.
Forward white light mounted at the top of the
jackstaff. It is used at the same time as
the after-anchor light.
Not Shown: The ASW light is a colored light, Conducting ASW operations.
visible as nearly as practical, all around
ASW Light the horizon. Each ship is provided with
[Grimes light) two red, two green, and two amber
lenses. The ASW light is installed on
all ASW-capable ships. The color to be
used is determined by the squadron
commander. The ASW light is installed
on either the yardarm or mast platform
where it can be seen all around the
horizon.
11-18
External Communications
Methods There are several ways by which to communicate with other ships and
shore commands while at sea. One of the oldest is communicating by
flaghoist using signal flags. The newest methods incorporate the use of
satellite uplinks to transfer data. The objective of the material presented
in this section is to give you a basic knowledge of methods of
communicating. You will be referred to reference material for
instructions concerning each method.
The following table gives you a snapshot of different methods used to

communicate while at sea.
Method Description
VHF Radio The VHF radio commonly refer to as the bridge-to-
(Electronic) bridge circuit is often used to exchange unclassified
information between ships. All vessels over 100
meters in length are required to be equipped with
VI-IF capability.
Radiotelephone When conducting operations, the RT circuits are
(R/T) probably the most frequently used method of
(Electronic) communicating. Each ship involved is assigned a call
sign. There are normally at least two secure
frequencies assigned for any operation by the officer
in tactical command (OTC). One frequency is used
for encoded tactical signals, while the other is used
for secure plain voice communications.
Flaghoist Tactical and information signals are communicated
(Visual) using signal flags. The flags and pennants are divided
into two flag bags. The allied bag contains 68 flags
and pennants that are used to communicate with other
naval ships. The international flag bag contains 40
flags and pennants that are used to communicate with
merchant ships.
Flaghoists are always read from the top outboard side

then down and inward. In other words, if three hoists
are closed up (at the top of the halyard) start at the
top outboard side and read down, then go to the top
of the next inner hoist and again read down, and so
on.
Signalmen make up and execute flaghoist messages or

signals as directed by the OOD.
11-19
External Communications, Continued
Method Description
Flashing Light Searchlights equipped with special shutters and red
lenses are used at night to send messages or signals.
Standard Morse code is transmitted to the receiving
ship by Signalmen
Semaphore Semaphore is much faster than flashing light when
transmitting messages over a short distance. It is
normally used while ships are alongside conducting
UNREP.
Signalmen send the messages using hand flags or light

wands.
Responsibilities As you continue to advance as a QM, you will be required to gain

experience in the use of the methods of external communication as
listed. As a PO2 or PO3, you are required to be able to read signal
flags and pennants. As step-by-step instructions are given in ACP 129,
Communication Instructions, Visual Signalling Procedures, they will not
be repeated here.
At the PO1 and higher paygrades, you are required to encode and
decode tactical signals. Instructions to meet this requirement are found
in ATP, Allied Tactical Publication lB, Volumes I and II. OJT is really
the only way to become proficient at encoding, decoding, and
transmitting tactical signals. The navigator can normally set up training
through the operations boss on this material.
Exchanging Occasions will arise when the exchange of navigational data with other
Navigational ships is necessary. In general terms, a position, time of position, and
Data course and speed are all that is required. Navigational data must never
be exchanged on unsecured frequencies. Always notify the navigator
when an exchange of navigational data is requested.
11-20
Bridge Watch Personnel
The numbers and assignments of personnel on watch vary from ship to

ship, depending on the ship’s size and availability of personnel.
The watch on the bridge, under way, normally consists of the following
personnel:
Officer of the deck (OOD)
Junior officer of the deck (JOOD)
Quartermaster of the watch (QMOW)
Boatswain’s mate of the watch (BMOW)
Helmsman
Lee helmsman (who mans the engine order telegraph and RPM
indicator)
Sound-powered telephone talker
Messenger
Lookouts
In the following text, we will discuss the duties of the OOD, BMOW,
and helmsmen. The Quartermaster, as an assistant to the OOD, must
know the duties of all bridge personnel.
Officer of the The officer of the deck under way is designated in writing by the
Deck commanding officer and is primarily responsible, under the commanding
officer, for the safe and proper operation of the ship.
The following is a list of the OOD’s primary duties as prescribed by the

Standard Organization and Regulations of the US. Navy, OPNAVINST
3120.32. The officer of the deck under way will:
1. Keep continually informed concerning the tactical situation and

geographic factors that may affect the safe navigation of the ship, and
take appropriate action to avoid the danger of grounding or collision
according to tactical doctrine, the Rules of the Road, and the orders of
the commanding officer or other proper authority.
11-21
Bridge Watch Personnel, Continued
Officer of the 2. Keep informed concerning current operation plans and orders,
Deck, continued intentions of the OTC and the commanding officer, and such other
matters as may pertain to ship or force operations.
3. Issue necessary orders to the helm and main engine control to avoid
danger, to take or keep an assigned station, or to change the course and
speed of the ship according to orders of proper authority.
4. Make all required reports to the commanding officer. When a

command duty officer is specified for the watch, he or she will make the
same reports to the command duty officer.
5. Ensure that required reports to the OOD concerning tests and

inspections and the routine reports of patrols, watches, and lifeboat
crews are promptly originated and that the bridge watch and lookouts
are properly posted and alert.
6. Supervise and direct the personnel on watch on the bridge, ensure

that all required entries are properly made in the Ship’s Deck Log, and
sign the log at the conclusion of the watch.
7. Issue orders for rendering honors to passing ships as required by

regulations and custom.
8. Ensure that the executive officer, command duty officer (when

assigned), and department heads concerned are kept informed of changes
in the tactical situation, operation schedule, the approach of heavy
weather, and other circumstances that would require a change in the
ship’s routine or other action on their part.
9. Keep informed of the status and current capabilities of the

engineering plant and keep the engineering officer of the watch advised
concerning boiler power requirements and the operational situation so
that he or she may operate the engineering plant intelligently.
11-22
Officer of the 10. Carry out the routine of the ship as published in the plan of the day
Deck, continued and other ship’s directives, keeping the executive officer advised of any
changes that may be necessary.
11. Supervise and control the use of the general announcing system;
the general, chemical, collision, sonar, and steering casualty alarms; and
the whistle according to the orders of the commanding officer, tactical
doctrine, and the Rules of the Road.
12. Permit no person to go aloft on the masts or stacks or to work over

the side except when wind and sea conditions will not expose him or her
to danger; and then only when all applicable safety precautions are
observed.
13. Supervise and control all transmissions and acknowledgments on

the primary and secondary tactical voice radio circuits, and ensure that
proper phraseology and procedures are used in all transmissions.
14. Supervise and conduct on-the-job training for the JOOW, the
JOOD, and enlisted personnel of the bridge watch.
15. Assume such other responsibilities as may be assigned by the

commanding officer.
16. Supervise the striking of the ship’s bell to denote the hours and
half-hours from reveille to taps, requesting permission of the
commanding officer to strike eight bells at the hours of 0800, 1200, and
2000.
17. On ships that do not station a damage control watch officer,

supervise the maintenance of a log of all fittings that are in violation of
the material condition of readiness prescribed. Entries will show the
name and rate of the person requesting permission to open a fitting,
approximate length of time to be open, and time closed. Anyone who,
without permission, violates the material condition of readiness in effect
shall be made the subject of an official report.
As you can see from the list of duties, the OOD can be a very busy
person. This is especially true when your ship is operating in company
with other ships or close to a shipping lane. For this reason, you, as the
Quartermaster of the watch, can be of great assistance to him or her.
The QMOW is the direct assistant to the OOD.
11-23
Junior Officer On many ships, the JOOD and conning officer watch stations are
of the Deck / manned by one person. In this capacity the JOOD maintains a constant
Conning Officer watch on all radar contacts along with CIC personnel. He or she
receives reports on contacts from lookouts and gives orders to the
helmsman and lee helmsman. The JOOD also encodes, decodes,
transmits, and receives tactical signals and acts as an assistant to the
OOD.
Boatswains The BMOW is in charge of the underway watch section. The status of
Mate of the the BMOW in this respect is the same whether the ship is in condition
Watch (BMOW) of readiness I, II, or III, or the regular sea watch or in-port watch has
been set.
The normal peacetime underway watch for which the BMOW is

responsible consists of the helmsman, lee helmsman, messenger,
lookouts, lifebuoy watch, and lifeboat crew of the watch. Besides being
an enlisted assistant and executive arm of the OOD, the BMOW is the
watch PO. It is the responsibility of the BMOW to make sure that all
deck watch stations are manned and that all personnel in the previous
watch are relieved. The BMOW makes a report to the OOD when the
deck watch has been relieved.
The ship’s organization and regulations manual shows the sea watch
stations that must be manned and the divisions required to man them.
From this, the BMOW knows which division section leader must be
contacted if any person fails to report at his or her watch station.
Helmsman: The helmsman is responsible for keeping the ship on

course as directed by the conning officer.
Lee Helmsman: The lee helmsman is responsible for operating the

engine order telegraph (EOT) and relaying information between the
bridge and main control.
Lookouts: There are normally three lookouts assigned to each watch

section. One stationed on the port bridgewing, one on the starboard
bridgewing, and one aft on the fantail. Each lookout is responsible for
reporting any contacts or objects in the water to the OOD immediately.
The aft lookout also watches the wake for personnel who may have
fallen overboard.
11-24
Relieving the QMOW
Relieving the Always arrive on station ahead of the scheduled time for relieving the
Watch watch. There is nothing more unprofessional and aggravating than a late
relief. More importantly, you must obtain much information about the
general situation before you can assume the watch. The general pattern
of relief is as follows:
One-half hour before the hour, the relief arrives on station. The relief
will make inspection, read logs and turnover sheets, and obtain other
information from watch standers. Fifteen minutes before the hour,
watch standers are relieved.
When you relieve the watch, make sure you obtain all information the
person you relieve may have for you. Such information includes verbal
orders to the wheel that still are standing, steering peculiarities because
of unusual weather situations, or anticipated aids to navigation.
When you arrive on the bridge, you must assess the general situation.
You should have a good knowledge of what is happening aboard your
ship. How much information you need depends to some degree on the
situation your ship is in at the time. If you are in company with other
ships, you will need much more information than you would if you were
steaming independently. Never relieve the watch until you have been
briefed on the ship’s position and turning or rendezvous points.
Additionally, you should sight all navigational aids (visual, radar, or
other electronic means) that are being used to fix the ship’s position.
Look over the Ship’s Deck Log entries of the previous watch and see if
there is anything pertaining to your watch. Report officially to the OOD
that you have relieved the watch. As previously mentioned, you serve
as the assistant to the OOD. In this capacity, you are very close to
events occurring on the bridge and at other stations. Your nearness
makes it possible for you to observe the watch personnel and the jobs
they are performing. Frequently, the OOD is involved in a problem
with maneuvering or navigation and may fail to notice the omission of
small details in the ship’s daily routine. The plan of the day or pages
from the ship’s organization book listing the routine of the day are
available in the pilothouse. It is an important part of your job as
QMOW to remind people concerned when the time approaches for
performing each detail.
11-25
Commanding Officers Night Order Book
General The navigator is also responsible for the preparation of the CO’s night
Information order book. Night orders are the captain’s orders of how he or she
wants the ship run when he or she is not on the bridge. The book is
normally divided into two separate parts: standing orders and night
orders.
Standing orders are the commanding officer’s statement concerning his

or her policies and directions under all circumstances. Night orders,
written on a daily basis, are a summary of tactical, navigational, and
readiness information for bridge watch standers. Additional information
and guidance are added by the captain and the navigator.
Prior to writing the night orders, the navigator reviews the ship’s
operational orders and the nightly schedule of events for anticipated
evolutions or activities. Should any conflicts exist between the schedule
of events and the standing orders, the navigator informs the commanding
officer.
The navigator then writes the night orders for the commanding officer,
providing ship’s information and operational data, including anticipated
evolutions and a schedule of events, if needed. The commanding officer
then adds his or her remarks and the night order book is placed on the
bridge.
Among the watch standers required to read and initial are the OOD,
JOOD, BMOW, and QMOW. This initialing ensures that the orders
have been read and understood.
11-26
The Ship’s Deck Log
Maintaining the As QMOW, one of your duties is to act as an observer and recorder.
Ship’s Deck Log There are many logs and records that you must maintain. Probably the
most important log will be the Ship’s Deck Log. The basic requirements
for maintaining the Ship’s Deck Log are contained in U.S. Navy
Regulations, 1973, and OPNAVINST 3120.32 series.
We will discuss the general policy and regulations, the form preparation,
the assembly and disposition procedures, the abbreviations, and the
required entries in the Ship’s Deck Log.
General Policy All U.S. Navy ships in commission and other craft, as required, must
and Regulations maintain a Ship’s Deck Log. The deck log is the official daily record of
a ship by watches. Entries should describe every circumstance and
occurrence of importance or interest that concerns the crew and the
operation and safety of the ship. Entries should also include information
that may be of historical value.
The deck log must be a chronological record of events occurring during

the watch that will meet the needs of the commanding officer.
Additionally, the deck log, will provide a document of historical, value.
Accuracy in describing events recorded in a Ship’s Deck Log is a must.
Deck log entries often make important legal evidence that may be used
in judicial and administrative fact finding proceedings arising from
incidents involving the ship or its personnel.
Under certain circumstances, such as limited local operations of service

craft, the maintenance of a deck log is not required. However, other
adequate records of events must be maintained by the command. If
doubt exists as to whether a deck log is required, the facts must be
submitted to the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) for a determination.
The Ship’s Deck Log must be "unclassified" except when another

classification is required by security regulations such as wartime
operations, special operations, and so forth. Basically, information in
the Ship’s Deck Log is FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.
11-27
The Ship’s Deck Log, Continued
Form All ships must prepare an original and one copy of the deck log. The
Preparation original log must be submitted monthly to the CNO for permanent
retention. The copy must be retained on board for a period of
12 months, after which time it may be destroyed.
Sample entries should be used as guides for recording the remarks of a

watch. Entries, such as reveille, meals for the crew, payday, and so
forth, which would not serve any useful purpose or add to the historical
value of the log, are not required.
All entries in the Ship’s Deck Log must be made with a ballpoint pen,
using black ink. The Quartermaster of the watch, or other designated
watch personnel, must write the log of the watch legibly. Each event
must be recorded at the time it happens or as directed by the OOD, who
will supervise the keeping of the log .
Most ships normally adhere to a 4-hour watch schedule (00-04, 04-08,

08-12, and so on.), but note as follows: uniform time segments for the
scheduling of watches are prescribed for the deck log. The remarks in
the deck log must be recorded daily by watches that consistently adhere
to the individual ship’s schedule. The circumstances under which a ship
is not required to make entries daily by watches can be found in
OPNAVINST 3100.7.
The top of each form must be filled in as follows:
1. In spaces 3 and 4 (fig. 11-8), enter the first two letters of the ship
type, and enter remaining letters, if any, in the next two shaded
unnumbered spaces. In spaces 5 through 7, enter the ship’s hull number.
Use leading zero, as required. If the hull number consists of four digits,
enter the first digit in the shaded unnumbered space.
2. In box 12, enter the last digit of the month; for example, 02 for
February. In box 15, enter the letter designation for the time zone used
to record time entries. In boxes 16 and 17, enter two digits for the day
of the month.
3. In the space provided, enter the ship’s position, latitude, and

longitude at the hours of 0800, 1200, and 2000. This entry should be
made each day during underway periods. Indicate the type of fix by
entering that number from the legend to the right.
11-28
Figure 11-8. Sample of the Ship’s Deck Log.
11-29
Form Make entries in the columns of the log as follows:

Preparation
1. TIME: Enter the exact time of occurrence of event(s) being
recorded.
2. ORDER: Enter the standard abbreviation (maximum of seven

characters) for orders requiring course, speed, or depth changes.
Standard abbreviations will be discussed later in this chapter. Orders
consisting of more than seven characters are to be recorded in the
EVENTS OF THE DAY column.
3. COURSE, SPEED, DEPTH: Enter the changes resulting from an

ORDER. Example: after a rudder order and the ship is steady, the
resulting course should be entered.
4. RECORD ALL EVENTS OF THE DAY: All entries in the Ship’s

Deck Log must be printed clearly and legibly. The remarks for each
event must commence on the line entry of the time of the occurrence.
When necessary, the remarks will be continued on succeeding lines.
Ships, other than submarines, must start recording the events of the day
in the DEPTH column.
Rewriting of the deck log sheets should not be required. When

necessary, corrections to log entries must be accomplished according to
the following procedures:
1. When a correction is deemed necessary, a single straight line must

be drawn through the original entry so that the entry remains legible.
The correct entry must then be inserted in such a manner as to ensure
clarity and legibility. Corrections, additions, or changes must be made
only by the individual required to sign the record for the watch and must
be initialed by that individual in the left margin of the page.
2. When the commanding officer directs a change or addition to a log

entry, the individual responsible for the watch must comply. If the
individual responsible for that watch believes the change or addition to
be incorrect, the commanding officer must enter the change or addition
on the log over his or her own signature.
Only the OOD must sign the log following the last entry made during a
watch. The name of the OOD must also be stamped or printed beneath
the signature. Facsimile signatures are not acceptable.
11-30
Deck Log A Ship’s Deck Log Title Page must be completed and attached to each
Disposition original and duplicate monthly log. The front and reverse sides of each
original log sheet may be used for either continuation of entries for a
day or for commencing entries for a new day. Ships that are directed to
prepare a duplicate copy for antisubmarine warfare (ASW) data must
start a new page when the day or time changes
When a ship is directed to provide a duplicate copy of the log for

specific ASW missions, two duplicate Ship’s Deck Log sheets must be
prepared in the following order:
1. The FIRST duplicate copy must be provided for ASW systems

evaluation use.
2. The SECOND duplicate copy must be retained on board ship.
The navigator must examine the Ship’s Deck Log daily and take such
corrective action as may be necessary and within his or her authority to
ensure it is properly kept. When each month’s log is complete, the
navigator must certify the correctness of its contents. This certification
should be made in the space provided on the Ship’s Deck Log Title
Page. Daily signature of the navigator is not required.
The commanding officer must approve the log at the end of each month,
when relieved of command, or when the ship is decommissioned. The
commanding officer must signify approval by signing the Ship’s Deck
Log Title Page in the space provided. Both the original and duplicate
logs must be signed. When a change of command occurs during the
month, the log title page for that month must bear the signatures of each
commanding officer. Additionally, the date of the change of command
should be entered. The log must not be terminated for submission upon
a change of command and must be submitted in its entirety at the end of
the month.
Each month’s log must be assembled beginning with the title page,
followed by the deck log sheets. The deck log sheets should be
unnumbered and in chronological order. The log pages for the month
must be secured by round head paper fasteners or ribbon. Staples or
other types of permanent binding must not be used.
11-31
Assembly and On the first day of each month or within 10 days thereafter, the original
Disposition deck log for the previous month must be forwarded directly to the CNO.
If required, the original deck log must be forwarded to the CNO by way
of the administrative commander. Unclassified logs must be forwarded
to the CNO by First Class Mail. Classified logs must be forwarded in
the manner prescribed in OPNAVINST 5510.1F.
Ships on extended patrols or conducting special operations and unable to

submit logs as required must do so within 10 days after reaching port.
The duplicate deck log provides a temporary record for shipboard use
and for the reconstruction of events. It must be retained on board for a
period of at least 12 months, after which time it may be destroyed.
When duplicate deck log sheets are required for ASW data use,
instructions for those sheets should be provided by the directing
commander.
When the original log or any portion of the log is withheld for any legal
proceedings, the CNO must be notified. Specific guidelines for using
the deck log in any legal matter can be found in the Manual of the
Judge Advocate General, JAGINST 5800.7B.
Standard There are several abbreviations that are allowed in the ship’s deck log.
Abbreviations Entries such as A/A/Full for all engines ahead full or R/AMID for
rudder amidships are completely acceptable. The deck log instruction
contains a complete list of frequently used abbreviations.
11-32
Required Log As previously stated, events that serve no useful or historical purpose
Entries should not be logged. This statement is not meant to minimize deck log
entries to the extent that an important event might be omitted. If there
is any doubt as to whether or not an event should be logged, the best
rule to follow is log it. You can always get guidance on the event in
question at a later time. It is easier to delete an event than to add an
event. The following is a partial list of required deck log entries. The
complete listing of 31 required entries is contained in the deck log
instruction and should be consulted when necessary.
1. Every injury, accident, or casualty, however slight, among the

officers, crew, passengers, visitors, longshoremen, harbor workers, or
repairmen on board must be recorded. The large number of claims for
pension or other compensation submitted by persons alleging injury
makes this information of great importance to the government. This
information serves both to protect the government from false claims and
to furnish a record for bona fide claims. Care must be taken to record
the full particulars in each instance.
2. All peculiar or extraordinary appearances of the sea, atmosphere, or

heavens, preceding or following sudden changes of wind, heavy squalls
of wind, or of heavy gales.
3. All unusual appearances of the sea, tide rips, discolored water,

extraordinary luminescence of the sea, strange birds or fish, icebergs,
driftwood, seaweed, and so forth.
4. All unusual meteorological phenomena, extraordinary refractions,

waterspouts, meteors, shooting stars, auroras, halos, fata morganas,
iceblinks, corposantos, and all Earth satellites.
5. The behavior of the vessel under different circumstances of weather

and sea, such as pitching, rolling, weathering qualities, and so forth.
6. The sighting of vessels, land lighthouses, lightships, and all dangers

to navigation, with time, bearings, and distances.
7. The bearing and distance of the object taken for a departure.
8. Any sounding, the record of which is important with the character of

the bottom.
11-33
General Duties of the QMOW
General Duties You will spend many hours standing watch as QMOW on the bridge.
Your duties are diverse and at times difficult; this is especially true
when you are operating with other ships. In this section of the chapter
we will begin to put together topics covered in other areas of the book.
The overall goal is to show practical application of what you have
learned and introduce you to a few new topics.
The general duties of the QMOW are:
Maintaining the DR plot and updating the ship’s position.

Recording entries in the Ship’s Deck Log.
Observing and reporting the weather.
Assisting the OOD.
Let’s take a look at what is required of the QMOW.
Fixing the The ship’s position must be determined and plotted at regular intervals.
Ship’s Position Normally, the navigator determines the fix interval. The interval
between fixes depends on the area in which the ship is operating. As
the situation changes the navigator may change the fix interval.
For example, if the ship is scheduled to make an rendezvous with

another ship in 4 hours, the fix interval may be changed from every hour
to every l/2 hour. The following table gives generally accepted fix
intervals for routine situations.
Situation Obtain a fix

every
Open Ocean Navigating, no land within 50 nm. hour
Open Ocean Navigating, land is within 50 nm, but not l/2 hour
closer that 25 nm.
Coastal Navigating, land is within 25 nn, but not closer 15 minutes
that 10 nm.
Coastal Navigating, land is within 10 nm, but not closer 10 minutes
that 5 nm.
Restricted Water, piloting 3 minutes
11-34
General Duties of the QMOW, Continued
Using All It is important to use all methods available to fix the ship’s position.
Available Means The navigator is required by instruction to fix the ship’s position by all
to Determine available means. You as the QMOW must make every effort to
Position accomplish this. In actual situations, you will often use a combination
of methods to determine the ship’s position. If transiting along a
coastline and visual or radar fixes are available, use them! In the
following list you’ll find methods of fixing the ship’s position listed by
accuracy, from the most accurate to the least accurate:
A visual fix on three objects 120° apart

A visual fix on two objects 90° apart
An electronic fix by GPS in the encrypted mode
A visual bearing and radar range on one object
A radar fix using three range arcs on objects 120° apart
A radar fix using two range arcs on objects 90° apart
An electronic fix by the AN/SRN 12 SATNAV
An electronic fix by LORAN
Approaching When approaching land from the open ocean, the QMOW must start
Land checking to see if radar fixes can be obtained. At about 25 nm, the
shoreline will start to become distinct. If sharp points of the shoreline
are available, radar fixes should be obtained. Radar fixes are used in
addition to whatever means are currently in place. In other words, if
fixes were being determined by GPS, you would continue to plot GPS
and also plot radar. As the ship progresses toward land, visual fixes
would be added. This process continues until the ship enters restricted
waters and the navigation detail takes over the watch.
During all of this activity, you must continue to maintain the DR plot.
As you learned in chapter 8, the DR plot must never be neglected while
you perform other tasks. In obtaining a fix, you are actually updating
the DR plot. You’ll find that as a ship draws closer to land, changing
course often becomes necessary due to shipping traffic. This makes
keeping your DR plot up to date even tougher. On the open ocean, the
QMOW’s ability is not taxed often; however, the watch becomes very
busy when approaching land. Always make an effort to be prepared.
Make sure that you have the next chart available and that your books
and logs are up to date. If at any time, you are unsure of the ship’s
position, do not hesitate to contact your LPO or assistant navigator for
guidance.
11-35
Maintaining As you now know, maintaining the Ship’s Deck Log is a big part of the
Logs QMOW’s duties. You must also maintain the following records:
Magnetic Compass Record Book

Standard Bearing Book
Weather observation sheets
Passdown log
The Magnetic Compass Record Book must be filled in each time the
ship changes course and on the hour and every l/2 hour as explained in
chapter 2. For example, if a ship changed course at 1947 an entry
would be made. The next entry would be 2000 and 2030, and so on
until the next course change. Gyrocompass error is entered in the
remarks column each time it is computed.
The Standard Bearing Book is used to record bearing, range, and

location of ATONs or radar points used to fix the ship’s position, during
piloting. Remember to enter the latitude and longitude of every ATON
or radar point used to fix the ship’s position beginning on the inside of
the back cover or as directed by the navigator.
As you learned in chapter 10, weather observation must be made each

hour whenever a ship is under way. You should begin your
observations about 15 minutes before the hour. This allows you to
completely record the observation data on the weather observation sheets
prior to obtaining the hourly fix of the ship’s position.
The passdown log is used to pass pertinent information down from

watch to watch. Make sure to record any information passed down to
you that concerns any aspect of the watch.
Plotting to During some operations, you may be required to maintain a plot in

support support of live firing exercises. Maps that use a grid system of
Weapons coordinates are used to maintain the plot. This type of plotting requires
specialized training involving both OSs and QMs and is scheduled by
the Operations Department. The OSs maintain the manuals and
instruction that give complete information on his topic.
11-36
Making Reports After each fix, you are required to make reports of the ship’s position to
to the OOD the OOD. When reporting, it is normal to report whether the ship is on
track, the distance left or right of track, course and speed the ship is
making good, any set and drift encountered, recommended course and
speed changes, and estimated time of arrival at the next departure point
(A, B, C, and so on) or rendezvous.
As you can see, there is quite a bit of information to report. To gather

the required information, you will have to evaluate two or more fixes.
This is a simple task that only takes a few minutes with a little practice.
Let’s break the evaluation down into sections, beginning with where the
ship is in relation to track.
As you know, a ship steers a course to follow the track to its

destination. The bow is actually always falling off left or right of course
and then the helmsman uses the rudders to correct. This is due mainly
to wind and current. Rarely does a fix fall exactly on the ship’s track.
To determine how far off track the ship has gotten, simply use the
dividers to measure the distance left or right, 90° to the track, and jot
down the results.
To find the course and speed made good since the last fix, use the
parallel rulers and compass rose or PMP aligned on the last two fixes to
find the course made good (CMG). Measure the distance between the
last two fixes to find the speed made good (SMG). Remember from
earlier chapters to use the time, speed, and distance triangle. Distance
divided by time equals speed. Jot down your results. We now have two
elements of our report. The next element to find is set and drift.
Set and Drift: What exactly is set and drift? Well, the term set means
the direction in which the ship is being pushed off course. Drift is the
speed or velocity that the ship is being pushed off course.
You will need recommended courses and speed changes to offset the
effects of set and drift. In some cases, it may be necessary steer several
degrees left or right of the desired course to make that course good.
Once again, keep in mind that set and drift are directly related to the
amount of wind and current. Let’s work an example problem to find the
value of set and drift.
11-37
Example: The ordered course and speed is 080° at 10 knots. You have
just plotted the 1000 fix, which shows the ship right of track. What is
the set and drift? Refer to the following table and figure 11-8 to find
set and drift.
Step Action
1. Find the CMG and SMG between the 0900 (A) and 1000 (C)
fixes. You can see the CMG = 089 and SMG = 11.2 kn.
2. Using a parallel ruler or PMP, find the direction between the
1000 DR (B) and the 1000 fix (C). As you can see, this equals
140°, the ship is being set in the direction of 140°
3. Using dividers, measure the distance between the 1000 DR (B)
and the 1000 fix (C). The distance is equal to 2.0 nmi.
4. To find drift, divide the distance by the time between the two
fixes. For our example the time between the two fixes is 1
hour. Drift equal 2.0/1.0 or 2.0 kn.
Note: You may measure set and drift over many hours, if
necessary. For example, if distance = 8.4 nmi, time = 7.5 hours
what is the drift? 8.4 + 7.5 = 1.12; drift equals 1.12 knots
Figure 11-8. Finding set and drift.
11-38
Allowing for Set and Drift: Once you have determined set and drift,
you can allow for it to make your desired course and speed.
Example: Let’s assume that you need to make course 265° and speed
15 knots good to arrive at the desired location on time. Set and drift are
determined to be 185° at 3 knots. Use the following table and figure
11-9 for this example.
Step Action
1. From your latest fix (A), lay out course and speed to make
good (B).
2. From A, lay out a line in the set direction of 185° and the
amount of drift of 3 knots (3 nmi), which gives you point C.
3. Determine the course to steer by finding the direction between
C and B. This is equal to 276° in our example
4. Determine speed necessary to make 15 knots good by dividing
the distance between C and B by the time of the run.
Figure 11-9. Allowing for estimated current.
Making You now have the knowledge to make recommendations to the OOD.
Recommend- Remember, after each fix you should make a report and any
ations recommended course and speed changes required. Also, when
maintaining the DR plot, always check to see that new courses ordered
by the conning are clear of obstructions. The OOD will often have to
maneuver the ship to avoid other ships.
11-39
Ship’s Position As prescribed by Naval Regulations, the navigator must report the ship’s
Reports position to the commanding officer. These reports, called Ship’s
Position Reports, are prepared and submitted three times a day; 0800,
1200, and 2000. The report provides the commanding officer with the
ship’s current position, how it was determined, distance traveled since
the last report, distance to the destination, and compass information.
The completed report is submitted to commanding officer about 5 to 10

minutes prior to the appointed hour. As the QMOW, you may be tasked
with providing some of the information for the report. Normally you
would begin the report about one-half hour prior to the appointed hour
and fill in position and compass information only.
Observing Another duty of the QMOW under way is to observe sunrise and sunset.
Sunrise and The times of sunrise and sunset are normally determined for the entire
Sunset transit prior to departing port. To observe sunrise, turn off running
lights, report to the OOD, and make deck log entry when the Sun
appears on the horizon. To observe sunset, energize and check for
proper operation of all running lights, report to the OOD, and make deck
log entry when the Sun disappears from the horizon.
Rendering As QMOW, you may be required to render honors to passing honors to

Honors U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, or foreign Navy ships. This applies to small
boats carrying official parties also. The following table lists the
procedure to be used to render honors. Complete infomation on honors
and ceremonies can found in chapter 12 of Naval Regulations and BM
TRAMANs.
Close aboard equals 600 yards for ships and 400 yards for boats.
Step Action
1. When close aboard with the bow of each ship about to pass, the
junior vessel sounds the command ATTENTION TO PORT OR
STARBOARD.
2. When abreast, the junior vessel sounds the command HAND
SALUTE.
3. When the senior acknowledges the rendered honors, the junior
vessel sounds the command CARRY ON.
11-40
Reporting While under way, it’s the lookout’s job to report visual contacts (other
Contacts ships). Again, remembering that the QMOW is an assistant to the OOD,
report any contacts that you observe.
Report a new contact to the OOD by relaying the following information

about the vessel:
Relative bearing
Range in yards
Type of vessel and class if possible (merchant, naval, DDG,
and so on)
Making The OOD is thoroughly versed in the Rules of the Road; however, you
Recomendations may make recommendations concerning navigational light displays and
Based on Rules prescribed sound signals required by the rules.
of the Road
Special The bridge must be set up for all special evolutions. These include
Evolutions evolutions such as, general quarters, UNREP, entering restricted waters,
and running a measured mile. As each ship is different, only general
discussion will be provided.
In general, the QMOW with the assistance of the QM gang will set
about getting the bridge ready for scheduled evolutions. Items like
sound-powered phones, phone and distance lines, and light wands must
be put in place and tested prior to the beginning of any evolution.
When preparing to run a measured mile, the navigation detail should be

set.
11-41
--
Duties While at The rules for relieving the watch at anchor are the same as when under
Anchor way except that night orders aren’t signed. The OOD may be stationed
on the bridge or at the quarterdeck. An anchor watch stationed on the
forecastle reports how the anchor is tending and the amount of strain on
the anchor chain.
Fixes are taken from available objects. A combination of visual and

radar fixes are used when suitable lighted aids are unavailable. Fixes
are normally taken on the hour and l/2 hour. However, once again the
navigator is responsible for determining the frequency of fixes. On
many ships, fixes are taken every 15 minutes when winds of more than
30 knots are present. The anchor watch report is obtained at the time of
each fix and reported to the OOD. You are also required to maintain a
close watch of any shipping traffic in the area. If any ship anchors
within 2,000 yards of your own ship, make a report to the OOD.
If, at any time, the ship plots outside of the drag circle or you suspect
the anchor of dragging, immediately inform the OOD. You must begin
fixing the ship’s position continously until directed to resume normal
fixes by the CDO or navigator.
Radio Communications: You may be required to monitor R/T and

VHF circuits. You should receive specific directions on which circuits
you must guard. Always take appropiate action as required on any
messages received over the circuits, and properly maintain the required
logs.
QMOW in Port While in port, your major responsibility is to hold morning and evening
colors and turn on and off inport lights. To start the day, you observe
sunrise and secure inport lights. At 0745, arrive on the bridge to
execute morning colors. At precisely 0755, SOPA will hoist PREP at the
Dip, you will announce over the 1 MC "FIRST CALL, FIRST CALL
TO COLORS." At 0800 SOPA will close up PREP and sound one
whistle blast over the one MC, you will do the same. After the
National Anthem is finished playing, SOPA will haul down PREP and
sound three whistles and once again you’ll do the same. Immediately
after evening colors is executed, turn on inport lights. The duty SM is
responsible for posting PREP on your ship.
You may be tasked from time to time with gathering weather or

navigational data for the CDO.
11-42
Chapter 12
Voyage Planning
Introduction In this chapter we will discuss one of the most important aspects of
navigation; voyage planning. Every successful voyage starts with a well
thought out plan. We will cover all details of developing a plan that
will enable you to have a successful voyage.
Plan and construct great-circle tracks.

Plan and construct coastal tracks.
Plan and construct restricted water tracks.
Plan and construct precision anchorages.
Plan for deployments.
Plan and construct navigation briefs.
Prepare to enter or depart port.
Topics Page
Planning and Constructing Great-Circle Tracks 12-2
Planning and Constructing Coastal Tracks 12-6
Planning and Constructing Restricted Water Tracks 12-7
Constructing Turn Bearings 12-8
Constructing Danger Bearings 12-10
Precision Anchoring 12-13
Navigation Brief 12-21
Departing Port 12-22
Entering Port 12-25
12-1
Planning and Constructing Great-Circle Tracks
Considerations The navigator (NAV) and assistant navigator (ANAV) must lay out the
ship’s complete intended track on the proper chart format. This task is
undertaken after the planning stage is complete but several days or
weeks before getting under way, depending on the length of cruise.
If your track will be less than 300 nautical miles, a small-scale Mercator
chart will be adequate. However, for those tracks exceeding 300
nautical miles, you will probably use the gnomonic or great-circle chart.
There may be some cruises longer than 300 nautical miles where a
Mercator or other type of chart is more appropriate than the great-circle
chart.
You will recall from chapter 1 the shortest distance between two points
is a straight line. A straight line is perfect for navigational track
planning using a great-circle chart (gnomonic projection).
The Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) publishes a number of charts, at

various scales, using the gnomonic projection and covering the usually
navigated portions of Earth. These are listed in the DMA Catalog of
Maps, Charts, and Related Products, part 2, volume X. The point of
tangency is chosen for each chart to give the least distortion for the area
to be covered. On this type of chart, a grreat circle appears as a straight
line. Because of this property, the chart is useful in great-circle sailing.
The following table shows the different stages of constructing a

great-circle track:
Stage Description
1. Select a great-circle chart that has a point of tangency nearest
your ship’s predicted track.
2. Draw the track and check for dangers (consult sailing
directions).
3. Transfer to open ocean Mercator charts (plotting sheets).
4. Label all departure points.
5. Determine SOA and lay out PIM.
12-2
Planning and Constructing Great-Circle Tracks, Continued
Track Use the following step action table to construct a great-circle track:
Construction
Step Action
1. Plot the departure and arrival points on the gnomonic chart
projection.
2. Draw a line between the two points (see fig. 12-1).
3. Inspect the track to make sure that is does not cross any
dangers. Redraw if necessary.
Note: If the track must be redrawn, always do so on the

gnomonic chart. This will have less impact on overall mileage
than navigating around dangers on a Mercator chart.
4. Select convenient points to use to transfer the track to small
scale Mercator charts. Normally these points should be about
300 nmi apart; refer again to figure 12-1.
5. Label the points beginning with the letter A.
6. Extract and record the latitude and longitude of each point.
This information can be used later for the movement report
(MOVREP).
7. Transfer the points to small scale Mercator charts (fig. 12-2) to
show the entire transit.
Transfer the points to larger scale Mercator charts that cover

about one leg of the transit each.
Example: Transfer points A and B on the first Mercator chart

selected; transfer points B and C on the second Mercator chart
selected; and so on.
8. Label the track with course and distance for that leg.
9. Go to steps 7 and 8 until all legs of the track have been
transferred and labeled.
Now the last stage is to lay out PIM. Move on to page 5.
12-3
Figure 12-1. Great-circle route; Norfolk to Gibraltar.
Figure 12-2. Rhumb line approximation to the great-circle track.
12-4
PIM At this point in track construction, we have done everything except

determine PIM. Use the following step action table to determine PIM
and label the track. As an example, we will assume that the ship departs
at 10SEP1200Z and arrives at the straits of Gibraltar on 19SEP0700Z.
Step Action
1. Find the total hours available for the transit.
19 0700 = 18 3100
10 1200 10 1200
8 1900 = 8 days x 24h + 19h or 211 hours
2. Add together all rhumb line distances between points A
through H. For our example, we’ll assume this to be
2247.5 nmi.
3. Determine the overall SOA. 2247.5 nmi ÷ 211
hours=l0.65kn. Always round up to the nearest l/10 of a
knot. SOA = 10.7
4. Begin with the departure point and lay out PIM times and date
in GMT for every 4 hours of transit time. Also label the time
of departure from each individual point. At this point we
have completed our track construction. As an aid to tracking
the ship’s progress it is highly recommended that the track
also be transferred to a small scale chart, as shown in figure
12-3.
Figure 12-3. Segment of overall track.

12-5
Planning and Constructing Coastal Tracks
Considerations There is a great difference between planning coastal tracks and

great-circle tracks. Coastal tracks often require more attention to
dangers and shoals. Normally coastal navigation may be defined as any
ship operating within 50 nmi of a coastline. Often there are many
shoals or dangers which must be avoided. Let’s look at a real world
example.
Ships departing Norfolk for southern OPAREAs often depart the traffic
separation scheme of Chesapeake Bay and steer on a SE heading.
Careful attention must be paid to this route due to shallow water and
submerged obstructions up to about 25 nmi from the coast in many
places. Also, hazards to navigation when turning south around Cape
Hatteras are too numerous to mention.
The point of this discussion is to make clear the dangers of coastal

navigation. The following rules apply to coastal track construction.
Rules:
Always review all applicable coast pilots and sailing directions

before laying down tracks
Check the proposed track thoroughly for dangers. Never allow the
track to pass within 5 nmi of any danger.
Highlight all coastal aids to navigation
Highlight any shoals, towers, OADS buoys, or other obstructions.
Use the best scale of chart available for any area the ship transits.
Use the following table to construct coastal tracks:
Step Action
1. Choose points from a small scale mercator chart that covers the
entire area the ship will transit. Draw lines for tracks and label.
2. Transfer track to the best scale coastal charts available.
3. Check each leg of the transit for dangers.
4. Determine SOA and label each chart with PIM.
5. Apply all rules making sure to highlight shoal water, dangers,
and NAVAIDs.
12-6
Planning and Constructing Restricted Water Tracks
Gathering The most critical track the QM will construct is the restricted water
Information track. This is because the ship is at its most vulnerable time when
transisting dangerous channels. You must plan for all contingencies. It
seems that Murphy’s law applies most often when a ship is in a channel.
Chart selection: Professional and thorough chart selection and

preparation is the foundation on which safe piloting through restricted
water tracks is based.
Effective chart selection requires a combination of skill and judgment.

Here are some questions to consider when selecting charts for restricted
water tracks.
Has the best scale chart been selected for the given area?
Have conspicious NAVAIDs been lost due to choosing the largest

scale chart available?
Are the latest editions of selected charts available?
Research: During the research phase, all reference material on the port
should be consulted and notes made. Often port directories and fleet
guides will provide invaluable data concerning entering or departing a
given port. Often information concerning best approaches, traffic
separation schemes, tidal currents, berths available, channel depths, and
so on are listed.
Taking detailed notes on this information will speed the process of

constructing the restricted water tracks. Once you have gathered
information about the port and selected the charts to use, you can start
the actual laying down of tracks.
Before you can lay down the actual tracks, you’ll have to learn about
red and yellow soundings, turn bearings, highlighting dangers, and
danger bearings and angles.
12-7
Planning and Constructing Restricted Water Tracks, Continued
Red and Yellow Red soundings are defined as the minimum depth beneath the keel that
Soundings the CO deems acceptable. For example, the CO may desire that the
ship’s draft + 3 feet equal the value for red soundings. For a ship with
a draft of 30', the red sounding would equal 33'. This means that at no
time may the ship enter water with a depth of less than 33'
Yellow soundings are defined as the depth beneath the keel that
indicates potential danger. This depth is also determined by the CO. It
may be the ship’s draft + 6 feet.
Red and yellow soundings are marked on the chart using a fine felt tip
marker of the correct color (red or yellow). After studying the charted
depths, freehand draw the red and yellow soundings limits. The result
will yield a red or yellow line similar to a fathom curve.
Highlighting All prominent NAVAIDS must be highlighted in yellow. This includes

NAVAIDS any radar navigation points that are selected for use. Radar points
should be labeled beginning with the letter A in the direction of travel.
Turn Bearings Turn bearings and ranges indicate the instant at which the rudder is put
and Ranges over to execute a left or right turn. Turn bearings and ranges are created
by using the advance and transfer quantities (see fig. 12-4) of your
ship’s handling characteristics to plot a point on your track to which a
bearing line or range arc is laid to a prominent NAVAID. A lighted
NAVAID is best for day and night versatility for bearing lines only.
The NAVAID should be as nearly perpendicular to the ship’s track as
possible. In narrow channels or tight turns the ship’s transfer quantity
must be closely considered when laying the turn bearing or range arc.
See figure 12-5.
Turn ranges present a few differences from turn bearings. The turn
range is an arc segment and should be identified’ on the primary chart by
a unique color or plotted only on the CIC secondary plot chart. If the
use of turn ranges is necessary, for example, fog restricted visibility, the
navigator will normally shift his or her station to the CIC secondary
plot.
The slide bar technique is accomplished by paralleling the next intended

course to the ship’s actual course. By doing this, the turn bearing can
be easily revised as shown in figure 12-5.
12-8
Planning and Constructing Restricted Water Tracks, continued
Figure 12-4. Advance and transfer.
Figure 12-5. Turn bearings and slide bar technique.
12-9
Danger Bearings A danger bearing is used by the navigator to keep the ship clear of an
outlying area of danger close to where the ship must pass. In all
probability, a danger area has been previously surveyed and is plotted on
the chart, but, in the vast majority of cases, it will give no warning of its
presence to the eye. Examples of such dangers are submerged rocks,
reefs, wrecks, and shoals. A danger bearing must be established
between two fixed objects, one of which is the danger area. The other
object must be selected to satisfy the following conditions: (1) It must
be visible to the eye; (2) it must be indicated on the chart; and (3) true
bearing from the danger area should be in the same general direction as
the course of the ship as it proceeds past the danger.
Figure 12-6. Example of a danger bearing.
As shown in figure 12-6, a ship is proceeding along a coast on an

intended track of 090°T at a speed of 5 knots (line AB). A shoal on the
port side is to be avoided. A line is drawn from lighthouse H, tangent
to the outer edge of the danger (line HX). As long as the bearing of
lighthouse H is less than line XH (the danger bearing), the ship is in
safe water. The danger bearing in this illustration is 074°T. You will
notice that the danger side of the danger bearing is hatched. The danger
bearing is also labeled with NMT (meaning NOT MORE THAN). An
example of a bearing to lighthouse H that would indicate that the ship is
in safe water is the broken line YH. No part of this bearing line passes
through the danger area. Any bearing greater than the danger bearing
(line XH), such as the broken line ZH, indicates a possible dangerous
situation. If the danger area is being passed on the port side, as in this
illustration, the safe bearing is less than the danger bearing. Danger
angles are not normally used; however, you should use Pub 9, Bowditch,
to learn more about using them.
12-10
Constructing the In the following table, you’ll find all of the steps listed to construct the
Restricted restricted water track. This list assumes that all information has been
Water Track obtained about the port.
Step Action
1. Mark all red and yellow soundings.
2. Lay down intended tracks. Normally, the intended track is laid
down in the middle of the channel (see fig. 12-7). The only
exceptions are very wide channels with mid-channel buoys where
the track is laid in the center of one-half of the channel.
Turn points are normally established by the intersection of two

course lines that have been laid for different legs of the track.
3. Label all courses, speeds, and distances.
4. Check for hidden dangers; construct danger bearings if necessary.
5. Create turn bearings for each turn. Remember to use lighted
NAVAIDs where possible.
6. Highlight all NAVAIDs and radar points; record in the Standard
Bearing Book.
7. On several areas of the overall track, display forecasted wind and
current data. This may done by drawing arrows that point in the
direction of wind or current with the force labeled. Alternately,
you may cut out arrows labeled with the information and then use
tape to stick the arrows to the chart.
Note: On larger deep draft vessels, 1 knot of current can equal

about the same as 10 knots of wind. Strong winds along with
1 knot or more of current may make larger vessels crab up a
channel.
12-11
Figure 12-7. 12-12

Precision Anchoring
Selecting an An anchorage position in most cases is specified by higher authority.

Anchorage Anchorages for most ports are assigned by the local port authority in
response to individual or joint requests for docking or visit. Naval ships
submit a port visit (PVST) request letter or logistic requirement
(LOGREQ) message well in advance of the ship’s scheduled arrival
date. Operational anchorages in areas outside the jurisdiction of an
established port authority are normally assigned by the senior officer
present afloat (SOPA) for ships under his or her command.
If a ship is steaming independently and is required to anchor in other

than an established port, the selection of an anchorage is usually made
by the navigator and then approved by the commanding officer. In all
cases, however, regardless of whether the anchorage is selected by
higher authority or by the navigator, the following conditions should
always apply insofar as possible:
The anchorage should be at a position sheltered from the effects of

strong winds and current.
The bottom should be good holding ground, such as mud or sand

rather than rocks or reefs.
The water depth should be neither too shallow, hazarding the ship,
nor too deep, facilitating the dragging of the anchor.
The position should be free from such hazards to the anchor cable as
fish traps, buoys, and submarine cables.
The position should be free from such hazards as shoals and

sandbars.
There should be a suitable number of landmarks, daymarks, and

lighted NAVAIDs available for fixing the ship’s position both by
day and by night.
If boat runs to shore are to be made, the anchorage chosen should be

in close proximity to the intended landing.
12-13
Precision Anchoring, Continued
Selecting an Even when an anchorage has been specified by higher authority, the
Anchorage commanding officer is ultimately responsible for the safety of the ship.
The commanding officer has the choice of refusing to anchor at the
location assigned if he or she judges it to be unsafe. In these
circumstances, the commanding officer should request an alternate
location less exposed to hazards.
Many of the coastal charts of the United States and its possessions
drawn up by the National Ocean Survey contain colored anchorage
circles and anchor symbols of various sizes for different types of ships.
The circles are located on the chart in those areas best suited for
anchoring, taking into account the factors listed above. These circles
and symbols are lettered and numbered, allowing a particular berth to be
specified. Foreign charts often have anchorage areas specified as well.
Amplifying information on possible anchorage sites can be obtained
from the applicable volume of the Coast Pilots, for U.S. waters; from
the proper volume of the En-Route Sailing Directions, for foreign
waters; and from the Fleet Guide, for ports in foreign or domestic
waters frequented by U.S. Navy ships.
When it is desired to anchor at a location other than that shown as an

anchorage berth on a chart, the anchorage is normally specified by
giving the range and bearing to it from a charted reference point, along
with the radius of the berth.
12-14
Terms After the anchorage position has been determined, the navigator is ready to
Associated With begin plotting the anchorage. In so doing, reference is often made to the
Anchoring following terms:
Term Definition
Approach track This is the track along which the ship must proceed in
order to arrive at the center of the anchorage. Its length
will vary from 2,000 yards or more for a large ship to
1,000 yards for a ship the size of a Navy destroyer or
smaller. Under most circumstances, it should never be
shorter than 1,000 yards.
Head bearing If at all possible, the navigator selects an approach track
such that a charted NAVAID will lie directly on the
approach track if it were extended up to the aid selected.
The bearing to the aid thus described is termed the head
bearing; it should remain constant if the ship is on track
during the approach.
Letting-go circle This is a circle drawn around the intended position of the
anchor at the center of the berth, with a radius equal to the
horizontal distance from the hawsepipe to the pelorus.
Letting-go bearing Sometimes referred to as the drop bearing, this is a
predetermined bearing drawn from the intersection of the
letting-go circle with the approach track to a convenient
landmark or NAVAID, generally selected near the beam.
Range circles These are preplotted semicircles of varying radii centered
on the center of the anchorage, drawn so that the areas are
centered on the approach track. Each is labeled with the
distance from that arc to the letting-go circle.
Swing circle This is a circle centered at the position of the anchor, with
a radius equal to the sum of the ship’s length plus the
length of chain let out.
Drag circle This is a circle centered at the final calculated position of
the anchor, with a radius equal to the sum of the
hawsepipe to pelorus distance and the final length of chain
let out. All subsequent fixes should fall within the limits
of the drag circle.
Note: The actual radii of both the swing and drag circles
will in reality be less than the values used by the navigator
in plotting them on the chart, because the catenary of the
chain from the hawsepipe to the bottom is disregarded.
Thus, a built-in safety factor is always included in the
navigator’s plot.
12-15
Before Before constructing the anchorage plot, it is always wise to draw a

Constructing the swing circle of estimated radius around the designated anchorage site to
Anchorage check whether any charted hazards will be in close proximity to the ship
at any time as it swings about its anchor. If any such known hazards
are located either within or near the swing circle, an alternate anchorage
should be requested.
If the anchorage appears safe, the navigator begins the anchorage plot by
selecting the approach track. During this process, due regard must
always be given to the direction of the predicted wind and current
expected in the vicinity of the anchorage. Insofar as possible, the
approach should always be made directly into whichever of these two
forces is predicted to be strongest at the approximate time at which the
anchorage is to be made.
Constructing the Use the following table to construct an anchorage:

Anchorage
Step Action
1. Select the approach track by considering the different objects available for a
head bearing, taking into account the expected winds and current in the bay.
Assuming negligible current and a northerly wind, the tower in figure 12-8 is a
good choice for a head bearing.
Figure 12-8. W-5 anchorage assignment.
12-16
Step Action
2. Lay out and label the approach track (minimum of 1,000 yd) and label as
shown in figure 12-9.
3. Lay out and label the intended track that will intercept the approach track.
4. Lay out and label the turn bearing for the turn onto the approach track. In
figure 12-9, a turn bearing of 345° on the tank is used.
5. Lay out the letting-go circle; remember that the radius of this circle is equal to
the distance from the pelorous to the hawsepipe.
6. Lay out and label the letting-go bearing (LGB). In figure 12-9, a LGB of 096°
is constructed using the stack.
7. Lay out range to anchorage distance arcs beginning at the edge of the letting-go
circle. Use 100-yard increments out to 1,000 yards and then also at 1,200,
1,500, and 2,000 yards, as shown in figure 12-9.
Figure 12-9. The completed anchorage track.
12-17
Executing the When executing the actual anchorage, the navigator’s dual objective is to
Anchorage keep the ship as near as possible on its preplanned approach track and to
have all headway off the ship when the hawsepipe is directly over the
center of the anchorage. As mentioned above, the navigator obtains
frequent fixes as the ship proceeds along its track, and keeps the bridge
continually informed as to the position of the ship in relation to the track
and the letting-go circle. The navigator recommends courses to get back
onto track if necessary. Since every ship has its own handling
characteristics, speeds that should be ordered as the ship proceeds along
the track are difficult to specify. In general, however, with 1,000 yards
to go, most ships usually slow to a speed of 5 to 7 knots. Depending on
wind and current, engines should be stopped when about 300 yards from
the letting-go circle, and the anchor detail should be instructed to "stand
by." As the vessel draws near the drop circle, engines are normally
reversed so as to have all remaining headway off the ship as it passes
over the letting-go circle. When the pelorus is exactly at the letting-go
bearing, the word "Let go the anchor" is passed to the anchor detail, and
the anchor is dropped.
As the anchor is let go, the navigator should immediately call for a
round of bearings to be taken, and he or she should record the ship’s
head. After the resulting fix is plotted, a line is extended from it in the
direction of the ship’s head, and the hawsepipe to pelorus distance is
laid off along the line, thus plotting the position of the anchor at the
moment that it was let go. If all has gone well, the anchor should have
been placed within 50 yards of the center of the anchorage.
Post Anchoring After the anchor has been let go, the chain is let out or "veered" until a
Procedure length or "scope" of chain 5 to 7 times the depth of water is reached.
At this point, the chain is secured and the engines are backed, causing
the flukes of the anchor to dig into the bottom, thereby "setting" the
anchor.
When the navigator receives the word that the chain has been let out to
its full precomputed length and that the anchor appears to be holding
round of bearings and the ship’s head, as well as the direction in which
the chain is tending. With this information, the navigator plots another
fix and recomputes the position of the anchor by laying off the sum of
the hawsepipe to pelorus distance plus the scope of chain in the
direction in which the chain is tending. This second calculation of the
position of the anchor is necessary because it may have been dragged
some distance from its initial position during the process of setting the
anchor.
12-18
Post Anchoring After the final position of the anchor has been determined, the navigator
Procedure, then draws a second swing circle. This time the navigator uses the
continued computed position of the anchor as the center, and the sum of the ship’s
length plus the actual scope of chain let out as the radius. If any
previously undetermined obstruction, such as a fishnet buoy or the swing
circle of another ship anchored nearby, is found to lie within this circle,
the ship may have to weigh anchor and move away from the hazard. If
the ship is anchored in a designated anchorage area, due care should be
taken to avoid fouling the area of any adjacent berths, even though they
might presently be unoccupied. If the swing circle intersects another
berth, it may be necessary to take in some chain to decrease the swing
radius; if this is not possible, a move to a larger berth may be advisable.
If the navigator is satisfied that no danger lies within the swing circle,
he or she then draws the drag circle concentric with the swing circle,
using as a radius the sum of the hawsepipe to pelorus distance plus the
scope of chain. All fixes subsequently obtained should fall within the
drag circle; if they do not, the anchor should be considered to be
dragging. Both the swing circle and the drag circle are shown in figure
12-10, assuming that a scope of chain of 50 fathoms to the hawsepipe
has been let out.
Figure 12-10. Swing and drag circles.
12-19
Post Anchoring After plotting the drag circle, the navigator then selects several lighted
Procedure, NAVAIDs suitable for use in obtaining fixes by day or night and enters
continued them in the bearing book for use by the anchor-bearing watch. The
anchor-bearing watch is charged with obtaining and recording in the
bearing book a round of bearings to the objects designated by the
navigator at least once every 15 minutes, and plotting the resulting fix
on the chart each time. Should any fix fall outside the drag circle,
another round of bearings is immediately obtained. If the second fix
also plots outside of the drag circle, the ship is considered to be
dragging anchor and all essential personnel are notified. In practice, if
the ship is to be anchored for any length of time, the navigator will
usually have the anchor watch cover the area of the chart containing the
drag circle with a sheet of semiclear plastic. This is done so the chart
will not be damaged by the repeated plotting and erasures of fixes
within the drag circle.
When a ship is dragging anchor, especially in high wind conditions,

there is often no unusual sensation of ship’s motion or other readily
apparent indication of the fact. The safety of the ship depends on the
ability of the anchor watch to accurately plot frequent fixes and to alert
all concerned if they begin to fall outside the drag circle. If conditions
warrant, the ship may have to get under way. As interim measures to be
taken while the ship is preparing to do this, more chain may be veered
to increase the total weight and catenary of chain in the water, and a
second anchor may be dropped if the ship is so equipped.
Situations in which high winds are forecast, the ship should assume an
increased degree of readiness, with a qualified conning officer stationed
on the bridge, and a skeleton engineering watch standing by to engage
the engines if necessary. As an example, during a Caribbean cruise a
U.S. Navy submarine was anchored off St. Thomas, V.I., in calm
waters with less than 5 knots of wind blowing. Because high winds had
been forecast for later in the night, the OOD was stationed on the
bridge, and a skeleton engineering watch was charged with keeping the
engines in a 5-minute standby condition. Two hours after anchoring,
after the liberty sections had gone ashore, the wind began to increase.
In the next 45 minutes, wind force increased to the point where 55-knot
gusts were being recorded. The ship got under way and steamed
throughout the night until the storm abated the next day. For additional
information on anchoring, types of anchors, and anchoring gear, refer to
Naval Ships’ Technical Manual, chapter 581, titled "Anchors and
Anchoring."
12-20
The Navigation Brief
Purpose The purpose of the navigation brief is to provide a standard procedure

that all ships follow prior to getting under way or entering port. The
briefing is presented by the navigator to the commanding officer and all
key personnel and provides a forum for discussion of the anticipated
ship movement. The joint Commander Naval Surface Forces Atlantic
and Pacific Instruction 3530.2, Navigation Standards and Procedures,
provides specific guidance on the minimum requirements of the contents
of the navigation briefing.
Content The following table lists items that may be found on the navigation brief
and is meant for illustrative purposes only. Do not rely solely on this
table but rather the joint instruction 3530.2 when constructing a
navigation briefing.
Item Description
Watch Assignments All key individuals are identified by name; for
example, the OOD, JOOD, EOOW, CICWO,
and helm safety officer.
Charts All charts and tracks are reviewed. Information
briefed includes items such as course and speed
of each leg, all dangers and hazards, NAVAIDs,
port requirements, demarcation lines, emergency
anchorages, and turn bearings.
Engineering The status of the engineering plant is reported.
Navigation The status of all navigation equipment is
Equipment reported.
Environmental Tide and current data is briefed for each leg of
Conditions the transit. Forecasted weather is briefed.
Pilot and Tugs Pilot pickup or drop off is briefed along with the
number of tugs anticipated.
Construction The actual construction of the navigation brief varies from ship to ship.
Some ships use preapproved forms while others use word processors or
data bases to construct a navigation brief. For either case the senior
Quartermaster and the navigator usually gather all required information
for the navigation briefing.
12-21
Preparing to Depart Port
Standard Use the following standard checklist to prepare to depart port. The
Checklist items listed may be modified as necessary by individual ships.
Time Action
prior
48 Establish getting under way schedule to cover propulsion plant
hours light off, shift from shore to ship’s power, last boat run, rigging
in of accommodation ladder, disposal of ship’s vehicles, light
off and testing of electronics suite, and U.S. and guard mail.
Release MOVEREP.
24 Conduct navigation brief.
hours
Verify arrangements for tugs/pilot.
Compare bridge and CIC charts.
Conduct steering system PMS.
Verify schedule for lighting off power plant.
Check navigation lights for proper operation.
Verify arrangements for running the degaussing range.
Ascertain scheduled ship movements.
8 hours Energize gyrocompass.
Energize and calibrate all radar repeaters.
Energize and initialize all electronic navigation equipment.

4 hours Determine gyro error.
Confirm tugs/pilot/line handlers.

3 hours Verify arrangements for discontinuance of shore services.
12-22
Preparing to Depart Port, Continued
Time Action
prior
2 hours Find out from the XO:
1. If any variation in standard sequence of stationing special sea

and anchor detail exists.
2. Time of heaving in to short stay or singling up lines.
3. Disposition of boats and vehicles.
4. Instructions concerning U.S. and guard mail.
5. Number of passengers and expected time of arrival.
After obtaining permission from the executive officer, start

hoisting boats and vehicles as soon as no longer required.
After obtaining permission from the executive officer, rig in

booms and accommodation ladders not in use and secure for
sea.
Promulgate under way time to all hands.
Energize all radars except those prohibited by local

electromagnetic emission restrictions.
Conduct radio checks on all required circuits. (Include bridge-

to-bridge RT.)
1 l/2 Muster the crew.
hours Shift into the uniform of the day, if applicable.
1 hour Set condition YOKE.
Clear ship of visitors.
MAA inspect for stowaways.
Tune and peak radars.
Ensure cleanliness of pier.
Ensure that the pit sword is in raised position, if applicable.
12-23
Preparing to Depart Port, Continued
Time Action
prior
45 min Station the special sea and anchor detail.
In reduced visibility: (1) station the low visibility detail; and (2) set material
condition ZEBRA on the main deck and below.
Make reports to DCC.

Embark pilot. Display CODE HOTEL.
Prepare anchor for letting go.
Test anchor windlass.
OOD shift watch to the bridge.
Conduct loss of steering drill.
Test sound-powered phone circuits in use.
Post tide/current/NAVAID information on the bridge and CIC.
Receive departmental reports for readiness to get under way.
MAA make report of inspection for stowaways.
Record draft of ship fore and aft in ship’s deck log, if applicable.
Raise deck edge antennas, if required.
15 min Obtain commanding officer’s permission to test main engine(s) and direct
engineering control accordingly after ensuring that the screw(s) is/are clear.
Test ship’s whistle and general alarms.
If alongside a pier, ensure that all shore connections are broken and that the
brows are ready to be removed.
Single up lines when so ordered.
Conduct time check throughout the ship.
Report when ready for getting under way to the executive officer.
10 min Order maneuvering bells by setting the engine revolution indicator system
on a certain repetitive number combination beyond the range of the engines,
such as "999", if applicable.
Warn engineering control to stand by to answer all bells.
If a flag officer or unit commander is embarked, request permission to get

under way as scheduled.
ZERO Under way.
After Shift colors/close up international call sign.
U/W When clear of restricted waters, lower pit sword.
When clear of restricted waters, conduct loss of steering drill.
Advise CO when entering international waters and haul down international
call sign.
12-24
Preparing to Enter Port or Restricted Waters
Standard Use the following standard checklist to prepare to enter port or restricted
Checklist waters. The items listed may be modified as necessary by individual
ships.
Time Action
prior
24 hours Conduct navigation plan brief.
Ensure CIC and bridge chart tracks are the same.
When Dump all trash and garbage overboard.
Directed Pump bilges when conditions permit.
Blow tubes if required.
Raise the pit log.
Ensure the smart appearance of the ship.
3 hours Ascertain the expected time of anchoring or mooring from the
navigator, and notify the engineer officer, weapons officer,
first lieutenant, and EOOW.
1 hour Pass the word, MAKE ALL PREPARATIONS FOR
ENTERING PORT. THE SHIP WILL ANCHOR (MOOR
SIDE TO) AT ABOUT . ALL HANDS SHIFT
INTO THE UNIFORM OF THE DAY.
Weather permitting, remove such canvas covers as are

normally off when in port.
Obtain information concerning boating from the XO; inform

the first lieutenant. Lay out mooring lines if required. Set up
and check all harbor and tug frequencies.
Test ship’s whistle and general alarms.

Station the navigation detail.
Conduct time check throughout the ship.
45 min Pass the word GO TO YOUR STATIONS, ALL THE
SPECIAL SEA AND ANCHOR DETAIL. Have anchor
ready for use when appropriate. Determine and record fore
and aft draft of the ship.
Prior to approaching restricted waters, conduct a loss of

steering drill.
Hoist international call sign when entering inland waters.
12-25
Preparing to Enter Port or Restricted Waters, Continued
Time Action
prior
30 min Obtain information from navigator on depth of water at
anchorage, anchor and scope to be used, and inform first
lieutenant.
Receive readiness reports for entering port.
Request permission to enter port from the proper authority.
When mooring to a pier, inform first lieutenant as to the

range of tide and the time of high water.
Station line handlers.

20 min When required, designated personnel fall in at quarters for
entering port.
Direct CMAA to inspect upper decks to see that crew is in

proper uniform.
15 min Station in-port deck watches.
If mooring to a buoy, lower motor whaleboat with buoy detail

as directed.
Stand by to receive tugs and pilots.

Upon Secure main engines, gyros, and navigational radars as
mooring directed.
If anchored, obtain navigation bearings and determine swing

circle.
Conclusion This concludes the Quartermaster rate training manual. Hopefully, you
have learned a great deal about your job and of navigation in general.
You are strongly encouraged to continue a strive for excellence in your
search for additional knowledge of navigation and shiphandling. As
mention in the preface of this RTM, the material you have covered
meets only the minimum occupational requirements for the QM. Don’t
stop here, continue to learn and by all means pass your knowledge on to
junior personnel who, with proper guidance, will continue to become the
trusted navigation advisors in the fleet.
12-26
Appendix I
Glossary
ACCELEROMETER.—An instrument used ARC.—Part of a curved line, as a circle.

to measure changes in velocity. The graduated scale of an instrument for
measuring angles, as a marine sextant.
AFTER TRUCK.—The highest part of the
aftermast. ATMOSPHERE.—The envelope of air
surrounding Earth or other celestial body.
AGROUND.—When any part of a ship is
resting on the bottom. A ship runs AZIMUTH.—The horizontal direction of a
aground or goes aground. celestial point from a terrestrial point. It is
usually measured from 000° at the
AIR ALMANAC.—A periodical reference direction clockwise through 360°.
publication of astronomical data, designed
primarily for air navigation. BAROMETER.—An instrument for
measuring atmospheric pressure.
ALTOCUMULUS.—A cloud layer (or
patches) within the middle level (mean BASE LINE.—The line between two
height 6,500 to 20,000 feet), composed of transmitters operating together to provide a
rather flattened globular masses. line of position, as in loran.
ALTOSTRATUS.—A sheet of gray or BEARING.—The horizontal direction of

bluish clouds within the middle level one terrestrial point from another. It is
(mean height 6,500 to 20,000 feet). usually measured from 000° at the
reference direction clockwise through 360°.
ANCHOR BALL.—A black circular shape
hoisted to indicate that the ship is BEARING CIRCLE.—A ring designed to
anchored. fit snugly over a compass or compass
repeater and provided with vanes for
ANCHORED.—Made fast to the bottom observing compass bearings.
by an anchor.
BEARING CURSOR.—A mechanical or
AYNGLE.—The inclination to each other of electronic bearing line of a plan position
two intersecting lines, measured by the arc indicator type of display for reading the
of a circle intercepted between the two target bearing.
lines forming the angle, the center of the
circle being the point of intersection. BEARING RESOLUTION.—The
minimum angular separation in a horizontal
APPARENT TIME.—Time based upon the plane between two targets at the same
rotation of the earth relative to the apparent range that will allow an operator to obtain
(true) Sun. data on either individual target.
AI-1
Appendix I, Continued
BINNACLE.—The stand in which a CIRROCUMULUS—High clouds (mean

compass is mounted. lower level above 20,000 feet), composed
of small white flakes or of very small
BLAST.—Signal on a ship’s whistle; short, globular masses.
about 1 second; prolonged, 4 to 6 seconds.
CIRROSTRATUS.—Thin, whitish, high
BLINKING.—Regular shifting right and clouds (mean lower level above 20,000
left of a loran signal to indicate that the feet).
signals are out of synchronization.
CIRRUS.—Detached high clouds (mean
BROAD COMMAND lower level above 20,000 feet) of delicate
PENNANT.—Personal command pennant and fibrous appearance.
of an officer, not a flag officer.
CLOSE ABOARD.—Near; within 600
BUOY.—A floating object, other than a yards for ship, 400 yards for boat.
lightship, moored or anchored to the
bottom as an aid to navigation. CLOSEST POINT OF APPROACH.—The
position of a contact when it reaches its
CELESTIAL EQUATOR.—The minimum range to own ship.
intersection of the celestial sphere and
extended plane of the equator. CLOSE UP.-A flag that is all the way up
on its halyard.
CELESTIAL NAVIGATION.—Navigation
with the aid of celestial bodies. CLOUD.—A visible assemblage of
numerous tiny droplets of water or ice
CELESTIAL SPHERE.—An imaginary crystals formed by condensation of water
sphere of infinite radius concentric with vapor in the air with the base above the
Earth on which all celestial bodies except surface of Earth.
Earth are imagined to be provided.
COAST PILOT.—A descriptive book for
the use of mariners, containing detailed
CELSIUS.—Temperature based upon a information about coastal waters, harbor
scale in which, under standard atmospheric facilities, and so forth, of an area,
pressure, water freezes at 0° and boils at particularly along the coasts of the United
100°. States.
CHART.—A map intended primarily for COLORS.—The national flag. The

navigational use. ceremony of raising the flag at 0800 and
lowering it at sunset aboard a ship not
CHRONOMETER.—A timepiece with a under way or at a shore station.
nearly constant rate.
AI-2
COMMISSION PENNANT.—Narrow red, CURRENT.—Water in essentially

white, and blue pennant with seven stars, horizontal motion. A hypothetical
flown at the main-truck of a ship in horizontal motion of such set and drift as
commission. to account for the difference between a
dead-reckoning position and a fix at the
COMPASS.—An instrument for same time.
determining courses steered and bearings
by indicating the magnetic or true north DAY BEACON.—An unlighted beacon.
and the ship’s head.
DEAD RECKONING.—Determination of
COMPASS HEADING.—A heading position by advancing a previous position
relative to compass north. for courses and distances.
COMPASS POINTS.—The 32 divisions of DECCA.—An electronic navigational

a compass at intervals of 11 1/4°. system by which hyperbolic lines of
position are determined by measuring the
COMPUTED ALTITUDE.—Altitude of phase difference of synchronized
the center of a celestial body above the continuous wave signals.
celestial horizon at a given time and place
as determined by computation, table, DECLINATION.—Angular distance north
mechanical device, or graphics. or south of the celestial equator and a point
on the celestial sphere, measured
CONSOL.—An electronic navigational northward or southward from the celestial
system providing a number of rotating equator through 90°, and labeled N or S to
equisignal zones that permit determination indicate the direction of measurement.
of bearings from a transmitting station by
counting a series of dots and dashes and DEGAUSSING.—Neutralization of the
referring to a table or special chart. strength of the magnetic field of a vessel
by means of suitably arranged electric coils
CONTOUR.—A line connecting points of permanently installed in the vessel.
equal elevation or equal depth.
DEGREE.—A unit of circular measure
CUMULONIMBUS.—A massive cloud equal to 1/360th of a circle.
with great vertical development, the
summits of which rise in the form of DEPTH.—Vertical distance from a given
mountains or towers, the upper parts often water level to the bottom.
spreading out in the form of an anvil.
DEPTH OF WATER.—The vertical
CUMULUS.—A dense cloud with vertical distance from the surface of the water to
development, having a horizontal base and the bottom.
dome-shaped upper surface, exhibiting
protuberances.
AI-3
DEPTH-SOUNDING SONAR.—A direct- DRESSING LINES.—The lines used in

reading device for determining the depth of dressing ship.
water in fathoms or other units by
reflecting sonic or ultrasonic waves from DRESSING SHIP.—A display of national
the ocean bottom. colors at all mastheads and the flagstaff.
(Full dressing ship requires, in addition, a
DEVIATION.—The angle between the rainbow of flags from bow to stem over
magnetic meridian and the axis of a the mastheads.)
compass card expressed in degrees east or
west to indicate the direction in which the DRIFT.—The leeway of a vessel or
northern end of the compass card is offset amount of set of a tide or current; the
from magnetic north. spare end of a rope.
DEW POINT.—he temperature to which EBB.—Tidal current moving away from

air must be cooled at constant pressure and land or down a tidal stream.
constant water vapor content to reach
saturation. ELECTROMAGNETIC.—Having both
magnetic and electric properties.
DIP.—Lowering a flag part way in salute
or in answer and hoisting it again. A flag ELECTRONIC
is "at the dip" when it is flown at about NAVIGATION.—Navigation by means of
two-thirds the height of the halyards. electronic equipment.
DIRECTION OF RELATIVE EQUATOR.—The primary great circle of

MOVEMENT.—The direction of motion Earth, or a similar body, perpendicular to
relative to a reference point, itself usually the polar axis.
in motion.
ESTIMATED POSITION.—The most
DIURNAL.—Having a period of, occurring probable position of a craft determined
in, or related to a day. from incomplete data or data of
questionable accuracy.
DIVIDERS.—An instrument consisting in
its simple form of two pointed legs joined FAHRENHEIT
by a pivot and used principally for TEMPERATURE.—Temperature based
measuring distances or coordinates. upon a scale in which, under standard
atmospheric pressure, water freezes at 32°
DOPPLER.—The observed change of and boils at 212°.
frequency of a wave caused by a time rate
of change of the effective distance traveled FATHOM.—A unit of length equal to 6
by the wave between the source and the feet.
point of observation.
AI-4
FIX.—A relatively accurate position GREAT CIRCLE.—The intersection of a

determined without reference to any former sphere and a plane through its center
position. meridian; angular distance west of the
Greenwich celestial meridian; the arc of
FLAGHOIST.—A display of flags used to the celestial equator, or the angle at the
indicate a signal or a group of signals. celestial pole, between the upper branch of
the Greenwich celestial meridian and the
FLAGSTAFF.—A small vertical spar at hour circle of a point on the celestial
the stem on which the ensign is hoisted. sphere, measured westward from the
Greenwich celestial meridian through 360°.
FLOOD TIDE.—Tide rising or flowing
toward land. GREENWICH HOUR ANGLE.—Local
hour angle at the Greenwich Meridian.
FOG.—A visible assemblage of numerous
tiny droplets of water or ice crystals GREENWICH MEAN TIME.—Local
formed by condensation of water vapor in mean time at the Greenwich Meridian; the
the air with the base at the surface of arc of the celestial equator, or the angle at
Earth. the celestial pole, between the lower
branch of the Greenwich celestial meridian
FORETRUCK—The highest point of the and the hour circle of the mean sun,
forward mast. measured westward from the lower branch
of the Greenwich celestial meridian
FRONT.—The intersection of a frontal through 24 hours; Greenwich hour angle of
surface and a horizontal plane. the mean sun, expressed in time units, plus
12 hours.
GAFF.—A small spar abaft the mainmast
from which the national ensign is flown GROUND WAVE.—That portion of a
when the ship is under way. radio wave in proximity to, and affected
by, the ground, being somewhat refracted
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION.—That by the lower atmosphere and diffracted by
point on Earth at which a given celestial the surface of Earth.
body is in the zenith at a specified time.
Any position on the earth defined by GUN SALUTE.—Blank shots fired to
means of its geographical coordinates. honor a dignitary or in celebration.
GNOMONIC PROJECTION.—A map GYROCOMPASS.—A compass having

projection in which points on the surface one or more gyroscopes as the directive
of a sphere or spheroid, such as Earth, are element and tending to indicate true north.
conceived as projected by radials from the
center to a tangent plane. GYRO REPEATER.—That part of a
remote indicating gyrocompass system that
repeats at a distance the indications of the
master gyrocompass.
AI-5
HALFMAST.—To fly a flag halfway up INTERNATIONAL RULES.—Rules of the

the mast as a sign of mourning. nautical road made effective by agreement
of the major maritime powers for use on
HAUL DOWN.—A term used as directive high seas and most inland waters of the
to execute a flaghoist by lowering it. world except the United States.
HONORS AND CEREMONIES.—A INTERPOLATION.—The process of

collective term; official guards, bands, finding a value between two known values
salutes, and other activities that honor the on a chart or graph.
colors, celebrate a holiday, or greet a
distinguished guest or officer. IONOSPHERE.—That part of Earth’s
atmosphere between the chemopause (at a
HUMIDITY.—The amount of water vapor height of about 50 miles) and the
in the air. ionopause (at about 250 miles).
HYPERBOLA.—A curve that is the locus ISOBARS.—Lines connecting points

of points having a constant difference of having the same atmospheric pressure
distance from two fixed points. reduced to a common datum, usually sea
level.
HYPERBOLIC NAVIGATION
SYSTEM.—A method of radio navigation JOOD.—Junior officer of the deck. The
(for example, loran) in which pulses assistant to the officer of the deck.
transmitted by two ground stations are
received by an aircraft or ship. KNOT.—The unit of speed that is
equivalent to 1 nautical mile (6,080 feet
INDEX CORRECTION.—That correction per hour); a collective term for hitches and
due to index error. bends.
INDICATOR.—A device or apparatus, LATITUDE.—Distance north (N) or south

usually partly or wholly automatic, for (S) of the equator, expressed in degrees
indicating something. and minutes.
INERTIAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM LIGHT CHARACTERISTICS.—The

(INS).—System designed to guide a ship sequence and length of light and dark
by a device independent of outside periods and the color or colors by which it
information, using the inertial properties of is identified.
gyroscopes.
LIGHTHOUSE.—A distinctive structure
INLAND RULES.—Rules of the nautical exhibiting a major light designed to serve
road that are applicable in most inland U.S. as an aid to navigation.
waters.
AI-6
LIGHT LIST.—A publication tabulating LONGITUDE.—Distance east (E) or west

navigational lights, with their locations, (W) of the prime meridian, which runs
candlepowers, characteristics, and so forth. through Greenwich, England.
LIGHTSHIP.—A distinctively marked LOOKOUT.—A man stationed as a visual

vessel anchored or moored at a charted watch.
point to serve as an aid to navigation.
LORAN.—An electronic navigational
LINE OF POSITION (LOP).—A line system by which hyperbolic lines of
indicating a series of possible positions of position are determined by measuring the
a ship as a result of observation or difference in the time of reception of
measurement. synchronized pulse signals from two fixed
transmitters.
LIST OF LIGHTS.—A publication
containing a description of every light in LUBBER’S LINE.—A reference line on
the world not located in the United States any direction-indicating instrument,
or its possessions. marking the reading that coincides with the
heading.
LOCAL APPARENT NOON.—The instant
at which the apparent (true) sun is over the LUNAR TIME.—Time based upon the
upper branch of the local meridian. rotation of Earth relative to the Moon.
LOCAL HOUR ANGLE.—Angular MAINMAST.—Second mast aft from the

distance west of the local celestial bow.
meridian; the arc of the celestial equator or
the angle at the celestial pole between the MAIN-TRUCK.—The highest part of the
upper branch of the local celestial meridian mainmast.
and the hour circle of a point on the
celestial sphere, measured westward from MANEUVERING BOARD.—A polar
the local celestial meridian through 360°. coordinate plotting sheet devised to
facilitate the solution of problems
LOCAL MEAN TIME.—The arc of the involving relative movement.
celestial equator or the angle at the
celestial pole between the lower branch of MANEUVERING SHIP.—A ship the
the local celestial meridian and the hour movements of which are defined relative to
circle of the mean sun, measured westward a given ship called the reference ship.
from the lower branch of the local celestial
meridian through 24 hours; local hour MASTER STATION.—The governing of
angle of the mean sun, expressed in time two or more synchronized transmitting
units, plus 12 hours. stations.
LOCUS.—All possible positions of a point MASTHEAD.—The top of a mast.

or curve satisfying stated conditions.
AI-7
MEAN TIME.—Time based upon the MRM.—Distance of relative movement.

rotation of Earth relative to the mean Sun. The distance along the relative movement
line between any two specified points or
MERCATOR PROJECTION.—A time.
conformal cylindrical map projection in
which the surface of a sphere or spheroid, NAUTICAL ALMANAC.—A periodical
such as Earth, is conceived as developed publication of astronomical statistics useful
on a cylinder tangent along the equator. to, and designed primarily for, marine
navigation, particularly the American
MERIDIAN.—A north-south reference Nautical Almanac published by the U.S.
line, particularly a great circle through the Naval Observatory.
geographic poles of Earth.
NAUTICAL
MESSAGE.—Any thought briefly stated in ASTRONOMY.—Navigational astronomy.
plain or secret language in a form suitable
for rapid transmission. NAUTICAL MILE.—A unit of distance
used principally in navigation. See Knot.
METER.—The basic unit of length of the
metric system, equal to the distance at 0°C NAVIGATION.—The process of directing
between two lines on a standard the movement of a craft from one point to
platinum-iridium bar. another.
MICROSECOND.—One-millionth of a NEAP TIDES.—The tides occurring near

second. the times of first and last quarter of the
moon when the range of tide tends to
MILLIBARS.—A unit of measure of decrease.
atmospheric pressure.
NIMBOSTRATUS.—A dark, low,
MINUTE.—The sixtieth part of a degree of shapeless cloud layer (mean upper level
arc. below 6,500 feet), usually nearly uniform;
the typical rain cloud.
MODULATOR.—That part of radio
equipment that alters the amplitude, NOMOGRAM.—A diagram showing to
frequency, or phase of a radio signal in scale the relationship between several
accordance with speech or a signal, or that variables in such a manner that the value
regulates the length of a pulse. of one that corresponds to known values of
the others can be determined graphically.
MORSE CODE.—Dots and dashes used in
communications in place of letters, NOT UNDER COMMAND.—A ship
numerals, and punctuation. disabled or uncontrollable.
AI-8
OFFICIAL VISIT.—A formal visit of PILOTING.—Navigation involving

courtesy requiring special honors and frequent or continuous determination of
ceremonies. position or a line of position relative to
geographical points to a high order of
OMEGA.—An electronic navigational accuracy.
system.
PIPE THE SIDE.—A ceremony conducted
OSCILLOSCOPE.—An instrument for at the brow of a ship in which sideboys are
producing a visual representation of paraded and the boatswain’s pipe is blown.
oscillations or changes in an electric
current. PLAN POSITION INDICATOR.—A
radarscope that has a sweep that originates
PARALLAX.—The difference in the in the center and moves to the outer edge
apparent direction or position of an object of the scope and presents an overflow of a
when viewed from different points. given area.
PARALLEL.—A circle on the surface of PLOTTING SHEET.—A blank chart,

Earth parallel to the plane of the equator usually on the Mercator projection,
and connecting all points of equal latitude; showing only the graticule and a compass
a circle parallel to the primary great circle rose so the plotting sheet can be used for
of a sphere or spheroid. any longitude.
PASSING HONORS.—Honors, except gun POLAR DISTANCE.—Angular distance

salutes, that are rendered by a ship when from a celestial pole.
ships or embarked officials or officers pass
close aboard. POSITION.—A point defined by stated or
implied coordinates, particularly one on the
PEAK.—The topmost end of the gaff from surface of Earth.
which the ensign is flown while a ship is
under way. PRESSURE.—Force per unit area. The
pressure exerted by the weight of Earth’s
PELORUS.—A dumb compass, or a atmosphere is called atmospheric or, if
compass card (called a pelorus card) indicated by a barometer, barometric
without a directive element, suitably pressure.
mounted and provided with vanes to permit
observation of relative bearings, unless PROLONGED BLAST.—A blast on the
used in conjunction with a compass, to whistle of from 4 to 6 seconds duration.
give true or magnetic bearings.
PROPAGATION.—A transmission of
PHONETIC ALPHABET.— A system of electromagnetic energy.
words that represents each letter of the
alphabet.
AI-9
PRO WORD.—Pronounceable words or REFRACTION.—The change in direction

phrases that have been assigned meanings of motion of a ray of radiant energy as it
for expediting message handling on radio passes obliquely from one medium into
circuits where procedure is used. another in which the speed of propagation
is different.
RELATIVE BEARING.—Bearing relative

PSYCHROMETER.—A type of to heading or to the ship.
hygrometer (an instrument for determining
atmospheric humidity) consisting RELATIVE MOTION.—Apparent motion;
essentially of dry-bulb and wet-bulb relative movement.
thermometers.
RELATIVE MOVEMENT LINE.—A line
PULSE-REPETITION RATE.—The rate at connecting successive positions of a
which recurrent pulses are transmitted, maneuvering ship relative to a reference
usually expressed in pulses per second. ship.
QUARTERDECK.—The portion of the RELATIVE PLOT.—A plot of the

weather deck designated by the successive positions of a ship relative to a
commanding officer for official reference point, which is usually in motion.
ceremonies.
ROOT MEAN SQUARE.—The square
RADAR.—(RAdio Detection And root of the arithmetical mean of the
Ranging) is a method of determining the squares of a group of numbers.
distance to and direction of objects by
sending out a beam of microwave radio RUNNING FIX.—A position determined
energy and detecting the returned by crossing lines of position obtained at
reflections. different times and advanced or retired to a
common time.
RANGE.—Two or more objects in line.
SAILING DIRECTIONS.—A descriptive
RANGE MARKER.—A distance marker, book for the use of mariners, containing
as on a radar PPI. detailed information of coastal waters,
harbor facilities, and so forth, of an area.
RANGE STROBE.—An electronic range
marker on a radar PPI. SCALE.—The ratio between the linear
dimensions of a chart, map, drawing, and
RECIPROCAL.—A direction 180° from a so forth, and the actual dimensions
given direction. represented.
REFERENCE SHIP.—A ship to which

relative movement of other ship is referred.
AI-10
SEMIDIAMETER.—The radius of a closed SOUNDING.—Measured or charted depth

figure. Half the angle at the observer of water or the measurement of such depth.
subtended by the visible disk of a celestial
body. SPEED OF RELATIVE
MOVEMENT.—Speed relative to a
SET.—The direction toward which a reference point itself usually in motion.
current flows.
SPRING TIDES.—The tides occurring near
SEXTANT.—A double-reflecting the times of full moon and new moon
instrument for measuring angles, primarily when the range of tide tends to increase.
altitudes of celestial bodies.
STADIMETER.—An instrument for
SHORAN.—A precision electronic position determining the distance to an object of
fixing system using a pulse transmitter and known height by measuring the angle
receiver and two transponder beacons at subtended at the observer by the object.
fixed points.
STAND.—The condition at high or low
SIDEREAL HOUR ANGLE.—Angular tide when there is no change in the height
distance west of the vernal equinox; the arc of the water.
of the celestial equator or the angle at the
celestial pole between the hour circle of STAR FINDER.—A device to facilitate the
the vernal equinox and the hour circle of a identification of stars.
point on the celestial sphere, measured
westward from the hour circle of the vernal STATUTE MILE.—A unit of distance
equinox through 360°. equal to 5,280 feet.
SIDEREAL TIME.—Time based upon the STRATOCUMULUS.—Low clouds (mean

rotation of Earth relative to the vernal upper level below 6,550 feet), composed of
equinox. a layer or patches of globular masses or
rolls.
SKY WAVE.—An indirect radio wave that
travels from the transmitting antenna into STRATUS.—A low cloud (mean upper
the sky, where the ionosphere bends it level below 6,550 feet) in a uniform layer.
back toward the Earth.
TANGENT.—The ratio of the side
SLACK WATER.—The condition when opposite an acute angle of a plane right
the speed of a tidal current is zero, triangle to the shorter side adjacent to the
especially the momentary condition zero same angle. A straight line, curve, or
speed when a reversing current changes surface touching a curve or surface at one
direction. point.
SOLAR TIME.—Time based upon the TELESCOPIC ALIDADE.—A device used

rotation of Earth relative to the Sun. with a gyro repeater for taking bearings.
AI-11
TEMPERATURE.—Intensity or degree of TWILIGHT.—The periods of incomplete

heat. Fahrenheit temperature is based upon darkness following sunset (evening
a scale in which water freezes at 32° and twilight) or preceding sunrise (morning
boils at 212°. twilight).
TERRESTRIAL SPHERE.—The Earth. UNION JACK.—Flag flown at the bow of

a ship moored or anchored, consisting of
THERMOMETER.—An instrument for the union of the national flag. Also flown
measuring temperature. in the boat of a high official and at a
yardarm during a general court-martial or
THREE-ARM PROTRACTOR.—An court of inquiry.
instrument consisting essentially of a circle
graduated in degrees to which is attached UPPER BRANCH.—That half of a
one fixed arm and two arms pivoted at the meridian or celestial meridian from pole to
center and provided with clamps so they pole that passes through a place or its
can be set at any angle to the fixed arm zenith.
within the limits of the instrument.
VARIATION.—The angle between the
TIDE.—The periodic rise and fall of the magnetic and geographical meridians at
surface of oceans, bays, and so forth, due any place, expressed in degrees east or
principally to the gravitational attraction of west to indicate the direction of magnetic
the Moon and Sun for the rotating Earth. north from true north.
TIME DIAGRAM.—A diagram in which VECTOR.—A straight line representing

the celestial equator appears as a circle and both direction and magnitude.
celestial meridians and hour circles as
radial lines, used to facilitate solution of VECTOR DIAGRAM.—A diagram of
time problems and others involving arcs of more than one vector drawn to the same
the celestial equator or angles at the pole scale and reference direction and in correct
by indicating relations between various position relative to each other.
quantities involved.
VERNAL EQUINOX.—That point of
TRACK.—To follow the movements of an intersection of the elliptical and the
object, as by radar or an optical system. celestial equator occupied by the Sun as it
changes from south to north declination on
TRANSMITTER.—One who or that which or about March 21.
transmits or sends anything, particularly a
radio transmitter. VISIBILITY.—The extreme horizontal
distance at which prominent objects can be
TROPICAL CYCLONE.—A violent seen and identified by the unaided eye.
cyclone originating in the tropics.
AI-12
VOICE RADIO.—Electronic WIND.—Moving air, especially a mass of

communications equipment that transmits air having a common direction of motion.
the speaker’s voice through the air on radio
waves to an appropriately tuned receiver. YARDARM—The port or starboard half
of a spar set athwartships across the upper
WAVELENGTH.—The distance in the part of a mast.
direction of advance between the same
phase of successive waves. ZONE TIME.—The local mean time of a
reference or zone meridian whose time is
WEATHER.—The state of the atmosphere kept throughout a designated zone.
as defined by various meteorological
elements, such as temperature, pressure,
wind speed, direction, humidity,
cloudiness, and precipitation.
AI-13
Appendix II
Reference List
Note: Although the following references were current when this TRAMAN was published,
their continued currency cannot be assured. Therefore, you need to be sure that you are
studying from the latest version.
Chapter 1
Defense Mapping Agency Catalog of Maps, Charts, and Related Products, Pub. l-N,
Defense Mapping Agency, Washington, D.C., 1994.
Dutton‘s Navigation and Piloting, 14th ed., Naval Institute Press, Annapolis, 1985.
Navigation Standards and Procedures, COMNAVSURFLANT/PACINST 3530.4,

Commander Naval Surface Force, Atlantic Fleet, Norfolk, Va., Pacific Fleet, San
Diego, Calif., October 1994.
Notice to Mariners, Defense Mapping Agency Hydrographic/Topographic Center,

Washington, D.C., 1994.
Chapter 2
American Practical Navigator (Bowditch), HO-9 Vol. I, Defense Mapping Agency

Hydrographic/Topographic Center, Washington, DC., 1984.
Handbook of Magnetic Compass Adjustment, 4th ed., Pub. No. 226, Defense Mapping
Agency Hydrographic/Topographic Center, Washington, D.C., 1980.
Magnetic Compass Record Book, NAVSEA 3120/3, Naval Sea Systems Command,
Washington, D.C.
Magnetic Compass Table, NAVSEA 3120/4, Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington,
D.C.
Chapter 3

Hydrographic/Topographic Center, Washington, D.C., 1984.
Current Tables, Atlantic Coast of North America, Defense Mapping Agency, Washington,
D.C., 1994.
AII-1
Reference List, Continued

Tide Tables, East Coast of North and South America, Defense Mapping Agency,
Chapter 4
Dutton’s Navigation and Piloting, 14th ed., Naval Institute Press, Annapolis, 1985.
Light List, Vol. III, Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S.
Coast Guard, 1993.
Navigation Rules, USCG Commandant Instruction M16672.2B, 17 August 1990.
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Current Tables, Atlantic Coast of North America, Defense Mapping Agency, Washington,
D.C., 1994.
Tide Tables, East Coast of North and South America, Defense Mapping Agency,
AII-2
Chapter 8

SRN-19 Operation Manual, Shipboard Operations and Maintenance Manual, NAVELEX

0967-LP-634-9010, Naval Electronics Command, Charleston, S.C. 1977.
Satellite Signals Navigation Set AN/WRN-6(V), COMSPAWARSYSCOM PMW-167,

Commander, Naval Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, Washington, D.C.,
March 1992.
Chapter 9
Dutton’s Navigation and Piloting, 14th ed., Naval Institute Press, Annapolis, 1985.
Chapter 10

Dutton's Navigation and Piloting, 14th ed., Naval Institute Press, Annapolis, 1985.
Manual for Ships Surface Weather Observations, NAVOCEANCOMINST 3144.1 C,

Commander Naval Oceanography Command, Stennis Space Center, Miss., 1984.
Chapter 11
Allied Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures, ATP 1, Volume 1, 1983.
Instructions for Ships Deck Log, OPNAVINST 3100.7B, Office of the Chief of Naval
Operations, Washington, D.C., March 1986, Revised July 1994.
Naval Shiphandling (Crenshaw’s), 4th ed., U.S. Naval Institute Press, Annapolis, 1985.
AII-3

Chapter 12

Navigation Rules, USCG Commandant Instruction M16672.2B, 17 August 1990.

AII-4
Index
A B
Acceleration/deceleration table, 11-9 Bearing circle, 2-22, 2-25
Advance, 11-7 Bridge equipment, 11-3
Advancing LOPs, 9-30 Bridge watch personnel, 11-21
Aids to navigation, 4-7 Buoy identification, 4-27

light cycle, 4-7
Buoyage systems, 4-28
Almanacs, 3-9
Buoys, 4-24
Alternating lights, 4-20
C
Altitude corrections, 9-19 Calculating true wind, 10-25
Amplitude of the Sun, 9-12 Celestial coordinate system, 6-3

celestial equator, 6-3
AN-SRN-19, 8-43 declination, 6-3
first point of Aries, 6-3
AN/WRN-6, 8-45 Greenwich hour angle, 6-3
local hour sngle, 6-3
Anemometers, 10-20 sidereal hour angle, 6-3
Aneroid barometer, 10-11 Celestial LOP, 9-16
Angle of turn, 11-8 Celestial sphere, 6-2, 6-4
Apparent time, 5-3 Chronometer, 5-14

average daily rate, 5-18
Approach track, 12-15 error, 5-14
Arc to time, 5-7 Circulation of the wind, 10-4
Atmosphere, 10-3 Cloud sharacteristics, 10-8
Atmospheric pressure, 10-11 Cloud formations, 10-6
Azimuth by Polaris, 9-11 CNOC 3140/8, 10-30
Azimuth circle, 2-22 Coast pilots, 3-4
Azimuth of the Sun, 9-2
INDEX-l
Index
Coastal tracks, 12-6 DR plot, 8-3

constructing, 12-6 example, 8-10
planning, 12-6 labeling, 8-11
six rules, 8-3
Cold fronts, 10-17 terms, 8-4
Commanding officers Night Order Book, 11-26 Drag circle, 12-15
Compass comparison, 2-18 Drift angle, 11-8
Compass error calculations, 2-15 E

Earth’s magnetic field, 2-3
Compasses, 2-6
cautions, 2-6 Electric psychrometer, 10-29
standard, 2-6
steering, 2-6 Equation of time, 5-4
Convert arc to time, 5-10 External communications, 11-20

nautical almanac, 5-10
F
Convert time, 5-11 Fathometer, 8-41
GMT to ZT, 5-12
ZT to GMT, 5-11 Final diameter, 11-7
D Fixes, 8-20
Danger bearings, 12-10
Fleet guides, 3-4
Daybeacons, 4-19
Fog, 10-10
Degaussing System, 2-13
degaussing coils, 2-14 Frontal systems, 10-15
Deviation, 2-11 Frontal weather, 10-13
Dew point, 10-29 G

Great-circle tracks, 12-2
Dip, 9-21 constructing, 12-2
planning, 12-2
Directional lights, 4-18
Gyro error by terrestial range, 2-32
Distances between ports, 3-8
Gyro error by trial and error, 2-33
INDEX-2
Index, Continued
Gyrocompass, 2-20 L
accuracy, 2-20 Labeling LOPs, 8-20
components, 2-20
operation, 2-20 Labeling the DR plot, 8-11
repeaters, 2-2 1
Lee helm, 11-3
Gyrocompass Error, 2-23
Letting-go bearing, 12-15
Gyrocompass Repeaters, 11-6
Letting-go circle, 12-15
H
Head bearing, 12-15 Light colors, 4-20
Helm orders, 11-12 Light List, 4-3, 4-4
Helm unit, 11-3 Light towers, 4-15
High-etage clouds, 10-8 Lighted aids to navigation, 4-7
Ho, 9-23 Lighthouses, 4-14
Horse latitudes, 10-5 Lines of position, 8-20
I List of lights, 3-6

IALA system A, 4-29
Local apparent noon, 9-36
IALA system B, 4-29
LORAN-C, 8-42
Index error, 9-21
Low-etage clouds, 10-9
International date line, 5-13
Luminous range diagram, 4-12
Intracoastal waterway, 4-38
M
Isobars, 10-13 Magnetic compass, 2-2, 2-7
components, 2-7
J operation, 2-7
JOOD, 11-24
Magnetic compass adjustment, 2-19
K
Kick, 11-8 Magnetic compass deviation tables, 2-10
INDEX-3
Index, Continued
Magnetic compass error, 2-9 P

deviation, 2-9 Parallax, 9-22
induced magnetism, 2-9
permanent magnetism, 2-9 Parallel motion protractor, 2-22, 2-26
setup, 2-27
Magnetism, 2-2
Pilot charts, 3-7
Maneuvering and warning signals, 4-44
Piloting, 8-18
Marine sextant, 8-24
finding the index error, 8-28 Pivot point, 11-7
positive index error, 8-3 1
negative index error, 8-32 Plan of intended movement (PIM), 8-12
Master helmsman, 11-11 Plotting instruments, 8-13
Mean solar time, 5-3 Plotting LOPs, 9-28
Mid-etage clouds, 10-8 Plotting techniques, 8-15
Minor lights, 4-19 Polar region winds, 10-5
N Post anchoring procedure, 12-18

Nautical almanac, 6-5
Precision snchoring, 12-13
Nautical slide rule, 8-7
Preparing to depart port, 12-23
Navigation brief, 12-22
Preparing to enter port or restricted waters,
Navigation team, 8-19 12-26
Navigational lights, 11-15 Pressure areas, 10-13
Navigational radar, 8-47 Prevailing westerlies, 10-5
Navstar global positioning system, 8-44 Publication correction, 3-10

GPS signals, 8-45
Publications, 3-2
O quick reference guide, 3-2
Observing sunrise and sunset, 11-40
INDEX-4
Index, continued
Q S
QMOW, 12-42 Sailing directions, 3-5
anchor watch, 11-42
general duties, 11-34 Satellite Navigation Systems, 8-43
In port, 11-42
Relieving the QMOW, 11-25 SCC alarms, 11-6
R Sector lights, 4-21

Racons, 4-23
Selecting an anchorage, 12-13
RADAR fixes, 8-50
Selecting landmarks, 8-20
Radio direction finder, 8-51
Semidiameter, 9-22
Range circles, 12-15
Set and drift, 11-39
Ranges, 4-16
Sextant angles, 8-33
Red and yellow soundings, 12-8
Shifting steering control, 11-6
Refraction, 9-21
Ship’s characteristics, 11-7
Relative bearings, 8-22
Ship’s clocks, 5-13
Relative humidity, 10-27
Ship’s inertial navigation system, 8-51
Rendering honors, 11-40
Ship’s position reports, 11-40
Reporting contacts, 11-41
Ship’s speed, 8-9
Restricted visibility, 4-50
Shiphandling, 11-7
Restricted water tracks, 12-7
constructing, 12-7 Sight reduction, 9-31
planning, 12-7 stars, planets, and the Moon using Pub
229, 9-31
Rude Starfinder, 6-14 sunline using Pub 229, 9-24
using Pub 249, 9-32
Rules of the Road, 4-39
Signals between vessels, 4-42
Running fix, 8-39
Signals used to attract attention, 4-51
INDEX-5
Index, Continued
Slide bar technique, 12-8 Time, speed, and distance, 8-5

3-minute rule, 8-6
Sling psychrometer, 10-27 table 19 of Bowditch, 8-5
Solar day, 5-3 Time ticks, 5-15
Sound signals, 4-37 Timepiece Rate Book, 5-17
Special submarine signals, 4-53 Timing celestial observations, 5-19
Standard time zones, 5-6 Tradewinds, 10-5
Star time, 6-10 Transfer, 11-7
Steering and sailing rules, 4-40 Turn bearings, 12-8

crossing situation, 4-41
head on situation, 4-40 Turn ranges, 12-8
overtaking situation, 4-41
Turning circle, 11-7
Steering control consoles (SCC), 11-3
V
Steering pumps, 11-5 Variation, 2-4
determine local variation, 2-5
Steering the ship, 1 l-l 1
techniques, 11-13 Visibility of lights, 4-8
computed range, 4-10
Swing circle, 12-15 geographic range, 4-10
horizion distance, 4-10
Swingers or revolvers, 8-37 luminous range, 4-10
meteorological visibility, 4-10
T nominal range, 4-10
Tactical diameter, 11-7
Visual estimation of wind speed, 10-23
Telescopic alidade, 2-22, 2-30
W
Temperature, 10-26 Warm fronts, 10-15
The ship’s Deck Log, 11-27 Weather observation, 10-30
Tidal current tables, 3-7 Weather observation and reporting, 10-34
Tide tables, 3-7 Wind, 10-19
INDEX-6
Index, Continued
Wind Measuring Set AN/PMQ-3, 10-21
Wind speed, 10-19
INDEX-7
Assignment Questions
Information: The text pages that you are to study are

provided at the beginning of the assignment questions.
ASSIGNMENT 1
Textbook Assignment: "Compasses," chapter 2, pages 2-1 through 2-33.
l-l. Which of the following definitions 1-7. The south-seeking end of a bar
best describes the term magnet has what type of magnetism?
"magnetism"?
1. Red magnetism
1. The characteristic properties 2. Blue magnetism
passed by magnets 3. Negative magnetism
2. A phenomenon of nature known 4. Permanent magnetism
only by its effects
3. The magnetic, o r a t t r a c t i v e , 1-8. What Earth component is the
power of all metals limiting factor of a magnetic
compass?
1-2. What are the two types of
magnetism? 1. Magnetic poles
2. Magnetic equator
1. North and South 3. Vertical
2. Hard and soft 4. Horizontal
3. Permanent and induced
4. Mechanical and corrosive 1-9. Which of the following facts is NOT
consistent with variation?
1. Earth's magnetic properties are
IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 1-3 THROUGH 1-5 not uniformly distributed
SELECT THE TYPE OF MAGNETISM FROM COLUMN B 2. Earth's magnetic properties are
THAT MATCHES THE DEFINITION IN COLUMN A not at the same location as the
NOT ALL RESPONSES ARE USED AND RESPONSES geographic poles
MAY BE USED MORE THAN ONCE. 3. The closer your ship is to the
equator, t h e l e s s t h e v a r i a t i o n
A. DEFINITION B. TYPES OF will be
MAGNETISM 4. Magnetic lines of force are
called magnetic meridians
1-3. Magnetism caused by 1. Induced
the influence of 1-10. The difference between the
an external force 2. N a t u r a l geographic North Pole and the
magnetic North pole is defined by
1-4. Magnetism retained 3. R e s i d u a l which of the following terms?
for long periods,
unless a 4. Permanent 1. Permanent magnetism
demagnetizing force 2. Induced magnetism
is applied 3. Variation
4. Deviation
1-5. Magnetism that remains
after a magnetizing 1-11. When a variation for an area is
force is removed figured, what factor determines
which compass rose should be used?
1. The one that has the smallest
1-6. The Earth's magnetism in the variation
Northern and Southern Hemispheres 2. The one that has the smallest
are called what types of magnetism? correction
3. The one that has the latest
1. Positive and negative magnetism year indicated
2. Permanent and induced magnetism 4. The one that is closest to your
3. North and south magnetism position
4. Blue and red magnetism
1
The compass rose indicates a IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 1-19 THROUGH 1-22,

1-12. SELECT THE FUNCTION FROM COLUMN B THAT
variation of 9° 42.0' E (1976), MATCHES THE COMPONENT IN COLUMN A.
with an annual decrease of 2'. RESPONSES ARE USED ONLY ONCE.
What is the variation in 1995?
A. COMPONENT B. FUNCTION
1. 9° 00' E
2. 9°o 04' E 1. U s e d t o a l i g n
3. 10 00' E 1-19. Card
the compass
4. 10o 03' E 1-20. Magnets
2. Made of
1-13. What U.S. N a v y v e s s e l s a r e p r o v i d e d 1-21. Gimbals nonmagnetic
w i t h a m a g n e t i c steering compass? material
1. All Navy vessels 1-22. Binnacle
3. G r a d u a t e d i n
2. Combat vessels only degrees from
3. Surface ships and craft only 0 to 359
4. Vessels with wooden hulls only
4. Permits compass
1-14. Of the following locations aboard to remain level
ship, in which one is the steering
compass usually located?
1. Centerline Which of the following type(s) of
2. Abaft the beam 1-23.
Portside to the helmsman magnetism i n f l u e n c e ( s ) d e v i a t i o n ?
3.
4. Adjacent to t h e c h a r t t a b l e 1. Permanent only
2. Induced only
1-15. If a ship has two magnetic 3. Residual
compasses, h o w i s t h e s e c o n d 4. Permanent and induced
compass referred?
1. Secondary compass
2. Steering compass IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 1-24 THROUGH 1-27,
3. Standard compass SELECT THE MAGNETISM FROM COLUMN B THAT
4. Alternate compass MATCHES THE CHARACTERISTIC IN COLUMN A.
In the term "137° PSC", what does NOT ALL RESPONSES ARE USED AND RESPONSES
1-16. MAY BE USED MORE THAN ONCE.
the PSC stand for?
A. CHARACTERISTIC B. MAGNETISM
1. Per standard compass
2. Per ship's compass 1-24. H a r d i r o n 1. Permanent
3. Per steering compass
4. Pilothouse steering compass 1-25. S o f t i r o n 2. R e s i d u a l
1-17. What magnetic compass is usually 1-26. C r e a t e d i n t h e 3. Induced
the most accurate? ship's structure
during construction 4. N a t u r a l
1. The steering compass
2. The standard compass
3. The ship's compass 1-27. V a r i e s a c c o r d i n g
to the intensity
4. The portable steering compass of the component
of Earth's field
l-l8. For best reliability, the magnetic
compass should be kept free of
sources of induced magnetism.
True 1-28. What is the most common method of
1. determining deviation at sea?
2. False
1. Comparing past and present
compass headings against a
gyrocompass
2. Verifying compass records
against a deviation table
3. Recording the compass readings
on all intercardinal headings
4. Swinging ship
2
1-29. All deviation is removed after a 1-37. Which of the following types of
magnetic compass is adjusted. headings may be used to name a
course or heading?
1. True
2. False 1. True
2. Magnetic
1-30. Which of the following degaussing 3. Compass
coils counteracts the ship's 4. All of the above
longitudinal permanent and induced
magnetism? 1-38. When correcting or uncorrecting the
compass from one heading expression
1. A to another, which of the following
2. F formulas is correct?
3. M
4. Q 1. Correcting, add east deviation
2. Correcting, add west variation
1-31. Which of the following degaussing 3. Uncorrecting, add east
coils will counteract the ship's variation
vertical permanent and induced 4. Uncorrecting, s u b t r a c t e a s t
magnetism? deviation
1. A 1-39. Converting from true course to
2. F compass course is called
3. L uncorrecting the compass.
4. M
1. True
2. False
IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 1-32 THROUGH 1-35 1-40. How often is the magnetic compass
SELECT THE DESCRIPTION FROM COLUMN B THAT adjusted?
MATCHES THE DEGAUSSING COIL IN COLUMN A.
RESPONSES ARE ONLY USED ONCE. 1. Quarterly
2. Semiannually
A. COILS B. DESCRIPTIONS 3. Annually
4. When the deviation exceeds 3°
1-32. A 1. Made up of loops
in vertical planes
1-33. F parallel to the
ship's frames
1-34. L
2. E n c i r c l e s t h e
1-35. Q after 1/3 of the
ship
3. E n c i r c l e s t h e
forward 1/3 of
the ship
4. Made up of loops
in vertical
fore-and-aft
planes
1-36. Figure 1A
What coil serves the same purpose
as the F coil? COMPUTE TRUE HEADINGS IN ANSWERING
QUESTIONS 1-41 THROUGH 1-43. REFER
1. A TO FIGURE 1A.
2. L
3. Q 1-41. What is the value of A?
4. M
1. 354
2. 356
3. 004
4. 000
3
1-42. What are the values of B and C? 1-51. Aboard ship, the master gyro should
be located in which of the
1. 274 and 273 following places?
2. 266 and 265
3. 266 and 267 1. Where least effected by ships
4. 274 and 275 motion
2. Where least effected by pitch
1-43. What are the values of D and E? and roll
3. Where it is safe from battle
1. 4W and SE damage
2. 6W and SE 4. All of the above
3. 4E and SW
4. 4E and 6W 1-52. What is the maximum mechanical
error allowed in a properly
1-44. The comparison of which two functioning gyrocompass?
headings indicates deviation?
1. 10
1. True and magnetic 2. 20
2. True and steering 3. 50
3. Steering and standard 4. 40
4. Magnetic and standard
1-53. Where are gyro repeaters located?
1-45. The comparison of which two
headings indicates variation? 1. Pilothouses and bridgewings
2. After steering
1. True and steering 3. Secondary conning station
2. True and magnetic 4. All ship's control stations
3. True and standard
4. Gyro and true 1-54. How often is gyro error determined?
1-46. If your ship is involved in an 1. Once a watch

underway replenishment, how often 2. Once every 4 hours
should the gyro check be made? 3. Once a day
4. Twice a day
1. Every 15 minutes
2. Every 30 minutes 1-55. Which method of checking the
3. Once an hour accuracy of a gyro compass is
4. Once every 4 hours called the Franklin technique?
1-47. Which publication is used to swing 1. Terrestrial range

ship? 2. Azimuth of Sun
3. Trial and error
1. H.O. 229 4. Amplitude of Sun
2. H.O. 226
3. H.O. 251 1-56. Which line should be used to align
4. H.O. 266 a PMP with a nautical chart?
1-48. I n m o s t c a s e s , how many hours 1. Latitude

should it take to successfully 2. Longitude
swing ship? 3. Any straight line
4. Rhumb line
1. 1
2. 2 1-57. A telescopic alidade fits what size
3. 3 of gyro repeater?
4. 4
1. 6 in.
1-49. Swinging ship may be accomplished 2. 7 1/2 i n .
anytime. 3. 8 in.
4. 10 in.
1. True
2. False
1-50. How soon prior to getting under way
should the gyrocompass be lit off?
1. 1 hr
2. 2 hr
3. 3 hr
4. 4 hr
4
1-58. What is the disadvantage of 1-60. When should the Franklin technique
obtaining gyro error by of determining gyro error be used?
terrestrial range?
1. In open ocean
1. Difficult to see unlighted 2. When entering or leaving port
ranges at night 3. Prior to getting under way
2. Only as accurate as the bearing 4. All of the above
recorder
3. Only as accurate as the bearing
taker
4. All of the above
1-59. Most harbors will have at least how
many sets of ranges?
1. One
2. Two
3. Three
4. Four
5
ASSIGNMENT 2
Textbook Assignment: "The Nautical Road," chapter 4, "Basics of Time," chapter 5, and
"Introduction to Celestial Navigation," chapter 6, pages 4-1 through
6-14.
2-1. Which of the following lights has a 2-8. When transiting the western rivers
regularly repeated flash not to of the Intracoastal Waterway, what
exceed 30 flashes per minute? is indicated by the number on a
navigation aid?
1. Single flashing
2. Interrupted quick flashing 1. Buoy number
3. Quick flashing 2. Daymarker number
4. Continuous quick flashing 3. Mileage from a fixed point
4. Mileage since entering the
river
IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 2-2 THROUGH 2-4, 2-9. How many rules comprise the main
buoy of the rules of the road?
SELECT FROM COLUMN B THE DESCRIPTION THAT
MATCHES THE ABBREVIATION IN COLUMN A. NOT 1. 33
ALL RESPONSES WILL BE USED. 2. 38
A. ABBREVIATIONS B. DESCRIPTIONS 3. 47
4. 52
2-2. Oc 1. Group
occulting 2-10. When two ships are experiencing
2 - 3 . Oc(2) constant bearing decreasing range,
2. Composite what action must be taken?
2 - 4 . Oc(2+1) occulting
1. The burdened vessel must turn
3. S i n g l e to port
occulting 2. The burdened vessel must turn
to starboard
4. Continuous 3. Both vessel's must turn to port
occulting 4. Both vessel's must turn to
starboard
2-11. When does a crossing situation
2-5. What color is an odd-numbered occur?
daymarker? When one ship approaches
1.
1. Yellow only another from 0° to 90° relative
2. Red only 2. When one ship approaches
Green another from 0° to 112 1/2°
3. relative
4. Yellow and red When one ship approaches
3.
2-6. What shape is an even-numbered another from 0° to 135°
daymarker? relative
4. Any time two ships meet from
1. Round any direction except dead
2. Square astern
3. Octagonal
4. Triangle 2-12. How is the term "length and
breadth" defined?
2-7. What color is a spherical buoy? A vessel's overall length and
1.
1. White only smallest beam
2. Red only 2. A vessel's overall length and
3. Yellow draft
4. White and red 3. A vessel's overall length and
greatest beam
4. A vessel's overall length and
least draft
6
2-13. Which publication will indicate the 2-20. What type of time is kept by the
harbor's demarcation lines? ship's chronometers and clocks?
1. 72 COLREGS 1. Mean solar
2. M 16672-2B 2. Apparent solar
3. ATP 1 VOL 3. Greenwich mean
4. CG-69 4. Local mean
2-14. When observing the International 2-21. What type of clock keeps the most
Rules, w h a t i s i n d i c a t e d b y t w o precise time yet developed?
short blasts?
1. Oscillator
1. I intend to alter course to 2. Quartz
port 3. Atomic
2. I intend to alter course to 4. Cesium
starboard
3. I am altering course to port IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 2-22 AND 2-23,
4. I am altering course to REFER TO FIGURE 5-3 IN YOUR TEXT AS A
starboard REFERENCE POINT.
2-15. A vessel agreeing to be overtaken 2-22. What time zone would you find
should sound what w h i s t l e s i g n a l ? 111°30´W?
1. One prolonged a n d o n e s h o r t 1. K
blast 2. T
2. One short and one prolonged 3. U
blast 4. W
3. Two prolonged and two short
blasts 2-23. What time zone would you find
4. One prolonged, one short, one 147°30'E?
prolonged, a n d o n e s h o r t b l a s t
1. J
2-16. The International Rules do not 2. K
specify a distance for sounding 3. V
signals. 4. W
1. True
2. False
IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 2-24 THROUGH 2-27,
2-17. Which of the following is NOT a SELECT FROM COLUMN B THE TIME ZONE
recognized distress signal? DESIGNATION THAT MATCHES THE TIME ZONE
LETTER IN COLUMN A. RESPONSES WILL ONLY
1. Code November Charlie BE USED ONCE.
2. Parachuted red flare
3. Square flag and ball A. LETTER B. DESIGNATION
4. The national ensign flown
upside down 2-24. M 1. +12
2-18. To which Sun is apparent solar time 2-25. T 2. -12
measured?
2-26. W 3. +10
1. True
2. Real 2-27. Y 4. +7
3. Fictional
4. Absolute
2-19. To which Sun is mean solar time 2-28. What is the arc equivalent to
measured? 1 second of time?
1. Absolute 1. 1'
2. Real 2. 4"
3. Tabulated 3. 15'
4. Fictional 4. 15 "
7
2-29 . What is the time equivalent to 2-37. During the last 5 minutes of an
1' o f a r c ? hourly time tick, which second is
NOT transmitted during the 57th
1. 1 sec minute?
2. 1 min
3. 4 sec 1. 51st
4. 15 sec 2. 52nd
3. 55th
2-30 . What is the arc equivalent of 4. 57th
16H 13M 53S?
2-38. During the last 5 minutes of an
1. 240° 27' 15" hourly time tick, the 29th second
2. 240° 43' 30" of each minute is NOT transmitted.
3. 242° 15' 12"
4. 242° 27' 15" 1. True
2. False
2-31. What is the time equivalent of
1° 1 1 ' l l " ? 2-39. Which of the following is not a
time tick?
1. Oh 4m 44s
2. Oh 4m 45s 1. CHU (Ottawa, Can.)
3. Oh 15m 44s 2. NWV (Ft. Collins, Col.)
4. Oh 15m 45s 3. WWVT (Memphis, Tenn.)
4. WWVH (Honolulu, Ha.)
2-32. When crossing the International
Date Line, w h i c h t i m e r u l e i s 2-40. How many megahertz are used to
correct? transmit time ticks?
1. Retard 1 day traveling east 1. 2.5
2. Retard 1 day traveling west 2. 12.0
3. Advance 12 hours traveling e a s t 3. 14.0
4. Advance 1 2 h o u r s t r a v e l i n g west 4. 21.0
2-33. The cesium chronometer is the main 2-41. On 01 February 94, your chronometer
source for keeping shipboard time. read -1 min 14 s e c , a n d o n
28 February 94, your chronometer
1. True r e a d - 0 m i n 4 3 s e c . What was the
2. False ADR?
2-34. When are step adjustments applied 1. -1.1

to time signals? 2. +l.l
3. +1.4
1. December 31st only 4. -1.5
2. June 30th only
3. September 7th 2-42. Which timepiece(s) is/are used to
4. December 31st and June 30th time celestial observations?
2-35. What is the maximum error obtained 1. Stopwatch only

when DUT is applied to GMT? 2. Comparing watch only
3. Stopwatch or comparing watch
1. 0.1 sec 4. An accurate wrist watch
2. 0.25 sec
3. 0.50 sec 2-43. How is the celestial equator also
4. 1.00 sec referred?
2-36. When figuring time, which formula 1. The equinox

is correct? 2. The celestial meridian
3. The celestial parallel
1. DUT = GMT + UTC 4. The equinoctial
2. UTC = GMT + DUT
3. GMT = UTC + DUT
4. GMT = UTC - DUT
8
IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 2-44 THROUGH 2-47, 2-52. Which of the following planets is
SELECT FROM COLUMN B THE DESCRIPTION THAT NOT used in navigation?
MATCHES THE TERM IN COLUMN A. RESPONSES
WILL ONLY BE USED ONCE. 1. Neptune
2. Jupiter
A. TERMS B. DESCRIPTIONS 3. Venus
4. Saturn
2-44. C e l e s t i a l 1. G r e a t c i r c l e s
equator that encircle 2-53. How many navigational stars are
the celestial listed in the Nautical Almanac?
2-45. D e c l i n a t i o n sphere, as do
meridians to 1. 51
2-46. F i r s t p o i n t longitude 2. 57
of Aries 3. 63
2. L a t i t u d e 4. 69
2-47. H o u r c i r c l e s
3. R e f e r e n c e p o i n t 2-54. When figuring morning or evening
for measuring s t a r t i m e , which formula is
declination correct?
4. R e f e r e n c e p o i n t 1. Add 30 minutes to s u n s e t
for measuring 2. Add 45 minutes t o s u n s e t
angles of stars 3. Subtract 45 minutes from sunset
and planets 4. Subtract 30 minutes from sunset
2-55. What information must be known to
enter H.O. 249?
SELECT FROM COLUMN B THE DESCRIPTION THAT 1. Declination and LHA
MATCHES THE TERM IN COLUMN A. NOT ALL 2. Declination and GHA
RESPONSES ARE USED. 3. Latitude and LHA
4. Latitude and GHA
A. TERMS B. DESCRIPTIONS
2-56. The Rude Starfinder uses how many
2-48. GHA 1. The angular transparent templates?
measurement of a
2-49. LHA celestial body 1. 8
measured eastward 2. 10
2-50. SHA from Greenwich 3. 12
4. 15
2. The angular
measurement of a 2-57. What is the altitude wave range of
celestial body a Rude Starfinder template?
measured westward
from Greenwich 1. 5 to 70
2. 5 to 80
3. Hour angle of 3. 10 to 65
a star 4. 10 to 80
4. The observed 2-58. The only advantage of the Rude
meridian of the Starfinder is to select several
celestial body stars for observation.
1. True
2. False
2-51. With reference to the Celestial
Coordinate System, which of the 2-59. What data must be known to use the
following facts is true? Rude Starfinder?
1. The first point of Aries is 1. Latitude only
the starting point for all 2. LHA only
celestial observations 3. Latitude and declination
2. Source celestial bodies are 4. Latitude and LHA
motionless
3. LHA associates all hour circles
of a celestial body with the
Greenwich meridian
4. LHA of Aries will align with
the Greenwich meridian
9
ASSIGNMENT 3
Textbook Assignment: "Celestial Observations and Sight Reduction Methods," chapter 9, pages
9-1 through 9-24.
3-6. What is the Total GHA?

3-1. Which of the following celestial,
bodies is/are NOT used to determine 1. 68° 17.4'
gyro error? 2. 71° 16.8'
3. 74° 15.8'
1. Sun only 4. 76° 58.8'
2. Stars
3. Moon only 3-7. What is the LHA?
4. Polaris and Sun
1. 51° 57.8'
3-2. A minimum of how many azimuths of 2. 52° 16.8'
the Sun are shot when figuring 3. 96° 47.3'
gyrocompass error? 4. 98° 08.1'
1. 5 3-8. What is the True Dec?
2. 2
3. 3 1. S 19° 21.9'
4. 4 2. S 19° 22.5'
3. S 19° 21.9'
3-3. Why take multiple observations when 4. S 19° 23.1'
determining gyrocompass error by
azimuth of the Sun? 3-9. What is the Tab Z?
1. To make sure the gyro is 1. 128.7°
working properly 2. 129.0°
2. To use the lowest gyro error 3. 129.4°
obtained 4. 129.9°
3. To use the highest gyro error
obtained 3-10. What is the (a) Dec Inc and
4. The average of all azimuth (b) Z diff?
observations obtained gives a
more accurate gyro error 1. (a) -38 (b) +.7
2. (a) .35 (b) -.7
3-4. What publication is used to figure 3. (a) .38 (b) +.9
the first half of an azimuth of the 4. (a) .32 (b) -.8
Sun?
3-11. What is the Dec Corr?
1. Nautical Almanac
2. Air Almanac 1. +.27
3. H.O. Pub 229 2. -.27
4. H.O. Pub 249 3. +.25
4. -.26
YOUR SHIP IS STEAMING IN THE NORTH
ATLANTIC, AND YOU FIGURE GYROCOMPASS 3-12. What are the (a) Lat Inc and
ERROR BY AZIMUTH OF THE SUN. THE DATE (b) Z diff?
IS 18 NOVEMBER 1984, THE DR LATITUDE
IS 34° 58'N, AND LONGITUDE IS 22° 18'W. 1. (a) .98 (b) +.2
THE ZONE TIME IS 14h 42m 19s, AND YOU 2. (a) .97 (b) +.2
OBSERVE THE SUN'S AZIMUTH AT 227.8°. 3. (a) .96 (b) -.2
4. (a) .95 (b) -.2
REFER TO FIGURES 9-1, 9-2, 9-3, AND 9-4 IN 3-13. What is the Lat Corr?
YOUR TEXT.
1. +1.5
3-5. What is the GHA? 2. -1.5
3. +1.9
1. 48° 42.2' 4. -1.9
2. 63° 41.0'
3. 273° 42.2'
4. 288° 42.8'
10
3-14. What is the (a) LHA Inc and 3-23. How is Amplitude of the Sun
(b) Z diff? defined?
1. (a) .99 (b) -.5 1. The a r c o f t h e h o r i z o n b e t w e e n
2. (a) .97 (b) +.7 the prime vertical circle and
3. (a) .95 (b) +.8 t h e observed body
4. (a) .96 (b) -.8 2. The a r c o f t h e h o r i z o n b e t w e e n
3-15. What is the LHA Corr? the prime horizontal circle and
t h e observed body
1. 3. The a r c o f t h e h o r i z o n b e t w e e n
+.77 the celestial horizon and the
2. -.77 observed body
3. +.82 4. the arc of the celestial
4. -.82 horizon between the vertical
3-16. What is the Total Corr? circle and the observed body
3-24 . The prime vertical circle may be
1. +.l true or magnetic depending on which
2. 0 east or west points are involved?
3. -.l
4. -.3 1. True
3-17. 2. False
What is the Exact Z?
3-25. How does the celestial horizon
1. 129.5° differ from the visible horizon?
2. 129.4°
3. 129.3° 1. They are perpendicular to each
4. 129.1° other
3-18. What is the Exact ZN? 2. The celestial horizon runs
through the center of the Earth
1. 050.9° 3. The celestial horizon and the
2. 221.7° Equator coincide
4. The celestial horizon is
3. 230.7° perpendicular to the Earth's
4. 230.9° axis
3-19. What is the Gyro Error? 3-26. When the center of the Sun is
on the celestial horizon, what
1. 1.7°W percentage of the Sun's diameter
2. 2.1°E is above the visible horizon?
3. 2.7°W
4. 3.1°E 1. 25
3-20. Polaris is always located within 2. 33
3. 67
how many degrees of true north? 4. 75
1. 1° 3-27. When planets and stars are on the
2. 2° celestial horizon, how much of them
3. 3° is above the visible horizon?
4. 4°
3-21. At what maximum latitude can an 1. Little less than one Sun
Azimuth by Polaris be taken? diameter
2. Little more than one Sun
1. 60° diameter
3. Little more than two Sun
2. 65° diameters
3. 70° 4. Little less than two Sun
4. 75° diameters
3-22. What area is best for observing an 3-28. The amplitude of the body is
Azimuth by Polaris? setting and the declination is
north. What is the (a) prefix
1. North latitudes and (b) suffix?
2. Lower northern latitudes
3. Higher northern latitudes 1. (a) East
4. The Equator (b) south
2. (a) West (b) north
3. (a) North (b) east
4. (a) South (b) west
11
3-35. Your ship is on the Equator and the

3-29. What information must be known to d e c l i n a t i o n i s N 1 8 ° 5 1 ' . What is
figure an amplitude of the Sun? the azimuth?
1. D R l a t i t u d e , DR longitude, 1. 18.5°
declination, and true bearing 2. 18.8°
to the Sun 3. 18.9°
2. LMT, D R l a t i t u d e d e c l i n a t i o n , 4. 19.0°
and true bearing to the Sun
3. LMT, D R l a t i t u d e DR longitude, 3-36. Which of the following rules for
declination, and true bearing figuring an amplitude is expressed
to the Sun correctly?
4. LMT, D R l a t i t u d e , d e c l i n a t i o n ,
and true bearing to the Sun 1. Setting Sun with north
declination, add amplitude to
YOUR SHIP IS STEAMING IN THE NORTH 090°
ATLANTIC, AND YOU FIGURE AN AMPLITUDE. 2. Setting Sun with sough
YOUR DR LATITUDE IS 38° 08.1'N. THE declination, subtract amplitude
DECLINATION IS S 21° 00.0'. THE SUN'S from 090°
POSITION IS SETTING AND THE SUN'S TRUE 3. Setting Sun with north
BEARING 245.2°T. declination, add amplitude to
270°
IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 3-30 THROUGH 3-34, 4. Setting Sun with south
REFER TO FIGURE 9-7 IN YOUR TEXT. declination, subtract amplitude
from 270°
3-30. How is the amplitude labeled?
3-37. What is the correct formula for
1. E 27.1 N figuring amplitude in south
2. W 27.1 S latitude, with north declination,
3. E 27.7 S and the Sun is rising?
4. W 27.7 N
1. 090° - amplitude
3-31. What is the azimuth? 2. 090° + amplitude
3. 279° - amplitude
1. 062.9° 4. 270° + amplitude
2. 117.1°
3. 242.9° 3-38. When using Bowditch (tables),
4. 297.7° volume II, i n a d d i t i o n t o t a b l e 2 7 ,
when is table 28 used to figure
3-32. What is the gyro error? amplitude?
1. 2.3°W 1. When the ship is in southern
2. 2.5°W latitudes
3. 2.7°E 2. When the ship is on the Equator
4. 3.1°E 3. If the body is observed when
its center is on the celestial fix?
3-33. The ship's latitude is 37° 00.8'N horizon
and the declination is S 20.0°. 4. If the body is observed when
What is the azimuth? its center is on the visible
horizon
1. 25.0°
2. 25.3° 3-39. What is the most accurate method of
3. 25.4° obtaining a celestial fix?
4. 25.7°
1. Take many sightings in a short
3-34. The ship's latitude is 39° 35'0 N period of time
and the declination is S 22° 48'. 2. Take a few sightings in a short
What is the azimuth? period of time
3. Take as many sightings as you
1. 29.4° can in 15 minutes
2. 29.5° 4. Take 6 or more sightings in
3. 30.2° 15-30 minutes
4. 30.4°
12
3-40. What type of fix is obtained by one IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 3-46 THROUGH 3-49,
LOP of a heavenly body? SELECT FROM COLUMN B THE DESCRIPTION THAT
MATCHES THE CORRECTION IN COLUMN A.
1. AP RESPONSES WILL ONLY BE USED ONCE.
2. EP
3. DR A. CORRECTION B. DESCRIPTION
4. C e l e s t i a l
3-46. R e f r a c t i o n 1. D i f f e r e n c e b e t w e e n
3-41. How is the star's altitude from the
assumed position referred? the celestial and
3-47. Dip visible horizons
1. Ha 3-48. P a r a l l a x 2 Deviation of rays
2. Ho of light from a
3. Hc 3-49. Semidiameter straight line
4. Hz Earth's atmosphere
3-42. Which of the following is the 3 Proximity of
sextant altitude of a star? bodies of the
1. Ha solar system to
2. Ho the Earth,
3. Hc resulting in a
4. Hs difference in
altitudes measured
3-43. What is obtained when sextant from the surface
altitude is corrected? and the center of
the Earth
1. Ho 4. R e s u l t s f r o m t h e
2. Ha nearness of bodies
3. Hc
4. Hs of the solar
system. Makes it
3-44. When plotting a star's LOP, the necessary to
abbreviation HoMoTo means the consider the
altitude intercept should be observed bodies as
measured from the EP toward appreciable size
the star. instead of points
of light
1. True
2. False
3-50. When does maximum refraction occur?
3-45. When you are observing the Sun,
what is the next step to carry out 1. When a body is on the horizon
after you have trained the line of amounting to between 24 and 29
sight on the point of the horizon minutes of arc
just below the Sun? 2. When a body is on the horizon
amounting to between 34 and 39
1. Raise the sextant until the minutes of arc
line of sight touches the lower 3. When a body is on the horizon
limb of the Sun amounting to between 18 and 27
2. Swing the arc about the line of minutes of arc
sight 4. When a body is on the horizon
3. Move the index arm until the amounting to between 35 and 45
Sun appears in the mirror minutes of arc
4. Move the micrometer drum to
bring the direct and the 3-51. Refraction varies with atmospheric
reflected horizons in line conditions. At what point should
observations be regarded as
suspicious?
o
1. Below 5 o
2. Below 10
3. Above 15°
4. At 0°
13
3-52. Dip corrections are always 3-58. The Nautical Almanac contains some
subtracted. tables that combine refraction,
p a r a l l a x , and semidiameter.
1. True
2. False 1. True
2. False
3-53. Failure to correct for dip at a
height of 10 feet will result in 3-59. Which strip form is used to reduce
how much error? star sights?
1. 1 mi 1. OPNAV 3530/30 H.O. 229 N a u t i c a l
2. 3 mi Almanac
3. 5 mi 2. OPNAV 3530/30 H.O. 249 N a u t i c a l
4. 10 mi Almanac
3. OPNAV 3030/35 H.O. 229 N a u t i c a l
3-54. How is parallax always applied? Almanac
4. OPNAV 3530/35 H.O. 229, H.O.
1. Multiplied 249
2. Divided
3. Added 3-60. The dip is -2.3 and the IC
4. Subtracted c o r r e c t i o n i s + 2 . 5 . What is
the total sextant correction?
3-55. Which of the following describes
parallax in relation to celestial 1. +4.8
bodies? 2. -4.8
3. +0.2
1. Parallax of the Sun is small 4. -0.2
2. Parallax of the planets is
smaller 3-61. The HA is 26° 47.8', and the
3. Parallax of stars is tiny altitude correction is 23.9'.
4. All of the above What is the Ho?
3-56. If the upper limb of a celestial 1. 26° 11.7'

body is observed, how is the 2. 26° 23.9'
semidiameter applied? 3. 26° 71.7'
4. 27° 11.7'
1. Added
2. Multiplied
3. Divided
4. Subtracted
3-57. What is the usual semidiameter
correction for the Sun and Moon?
1. 10 min
2. 15 min
3. 16 min
4. 20 min
14
ASSIGNMENT 4
Textbook Assignment: "Celestial Observations and Sight Reduction Methods" continued,
chapter 9, pages 9-15 through 9-41.
IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 4-1 THROUGH 4-9 4-8. What is the intercept?

REFER TO FIGURES 4-A THROUGH 4-E, LOCATED
AT THE END OF THIS ASSIGNMENT, TO FIGURE A 1. 22.4
SUNLINE. THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS miles away
GIVEN. 2. 22.4 miles towards
3. 16.2 miles away
4. 16.2 miles towards
DATE: 1 MARCH 1984
DR LATITUDE: 32°14.0'N 4-9. What is the Zn?
DR LONGITUDE: 18°54.O'W
GMT: 11-27-30 1. 139.2°
HEIGHT OF EYE: 32 FT 2. 139.5°
ON THE ARC: 1.0' 3. 138.4°
hs: 41°31.3 4. 140.2°
4-l. What is the IC correction? UPON FIGURING A SUNLINE YOUR DR LATITUDE
IS 37°14.3'N, DECLINATION IS 09°29.4', AND
1. 0 THE LHA IS 300°.
2. +l.0
3. -1.0 IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 4-10 AND 4-11
4. -2.0 REFER TO FIGURES 9-10 AND 9-11 IN YOUR
TEXT.
4-2. What is the altitude correction?
4-10. What is the d?
1. +14.9
2. -14.9 1. 35.3
3. +15.2 2. 35.4
4. -15.2 3. 36.4
4-3. 4. 36.8
What is the Ho?
4-11. What is the HC?
1. 41°09.6'
2. 41°24.8' 1. 28°14.6'
3. 41°36.5' 2. 28°15.7'
4. 41°40.0' 3. 29°08.4'
4-4. 4. 29°14.7'
What is the total GHA?
4-12. When plotting a sunline (LOP)
1. 331°00.0' which longitude is used to plot the
2. 335°29.2' AP on the plotting sheet?
3. 341°54.7'
4. 348°47.2' 1. The DR longitude
4-5. 2. The actual longitude
What is the LHA? 3. The assumed longitude
4. The computed longitude
1. 324°
2. 330°
3. 346°
4. 356°
4-6. What is the d#?
1. - .5
2. + .5
3. -1.0
4. +l.0
4-7. What is the total declination
interpolation correction?
1. 10.7'
2. 20.5'
3. 23.0'
4. 26.3'
15
IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 4-13 THROUGH 4-17, 4-19 . What is the difference between
REFER TO FIGURE 4-F, LOCATED AT THE END OF figuring an LOP of the sun, and the
THIS ASSIGNMENT. FIGURE 4-F PERTAINS TO A LOP of a star?
CELESTIAL FIX OBTAINED BY THE INTERSECTION
OF THREE LINES OF POSITIONS. FIGURE 4-F 1. Subtract SHA from LHA
SHOWS HOW (UNDER IDEAL CONDITIONS) A FIX 2. Add SHA to LHA
CAN BE OBTAINED DURING THE DAYTIME BY 3. Subtract SHA from LHA
OBSERVING THE SUN, MOON, AND VENUS. THE 4. Add SHA to GHA
SIZE OF THE RESULTING TRIANGLE HAS BEEN
ENLARGED IN RELATION TO THE REST OF THE 4-20 . When figuring planets, which
DIAGRAM STRICTLY FOR ILLUSTRATIVE correction(s) is/are applied to
PURPOSES. GHA?
4-13. Points A, B , a n d C i n f i g u r e 4 - F 1. v only

represent 2. d only
3. r factor
1. known positions 4. v and d
2. assumed positions
3. altitude intercepts 4-21. When figuring the Moon, how is the
4. azimuth intercepts V correction applied?
4-14. Which line in figure 4-F represents 1. Always added

the true azimuth of a celestial 2. Always subtracted
body? 3. Added in south latitudes only
4. Added in north latitudes only
1. B-D
2. E-G IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 4-22 THROUGH 4-34
3. H-I REFER TO FIGURE 4-C THROUGH 4-E, 4-H AND
4. S-T 4-1, LOCATED AT THE END OF THIS
ASSIGNMENT. THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS
4-15 . An altitude intercept is GIVEN.
represented in figure 4-F by line
Body: ANTARES
1. A-N DATE: 14 J a n u a r y 1990
2. C-H DR LATITUDE 36°09.1'N
3. K-J DR LONGITUDE: 143°27.9E
4. S-T GMT: 21 18 38
HEIGHT OF EYE: 80 FT
4-16. An advanced line of position is IC: +3.0'
represented in figure 4-F by lines hs: 21°35.3
1. B-D and C-H 4-22 . What is the sum of the IC and Dip
2. D-F and H-I correction?
3. E-G and L-M
4. K-J and S-T 1. -5.7'
2. +5.7'
4-17. In figure 4-F, the 1530 fix should 3. -11.7'
be indicated as being at point 4. +11.7'
1. W 4-23 . What is the Ha?

2. X
3. Y 1. 21° 23.6'
4. Z 2. 21° 29.6'
3. 21° 41.0'
4-18. Which, i f a n y o f t h e L O P , i f a n y , 4. 21° 47.0'
did not need to be advanced?
4-24 . What is the altitude correction?
1. Moon
2. Sirius 1. - 2.4
3. Venus 2. + 2.8
4. None of the above 3. +15.0
4. -15.2
4-25 . What is the Ho?
1. 21° 18.0'
2. 21° 27.2'
3. 21° 29.6'
4. 21° 30.5'
16
4-26. What is the total GHA? IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 4-35 THROUGH 4-44,
REDUCING SIGHTS USING H.O. 249, REFER TO
1. 73" 44.0' FIGURES 9-17, 9-18, AND 9-19 IN YOUR TEXT.
2. 112° 48.1' THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS GIVEN.
3. 147° 32.8'
4. 186° 32.1' DATE: 30 March 1985
4-27. LATITUDE: 37° 0 1 . 4 ' N
What is the assumed longitude? LONGITUDE: 27° 09.9'W
hs: 49° 41.0' Altair
1. 143° 27.91' HEIGHT OF EYE: 40 Feet
2. 143° 32.1' GMT: 07 00 00
3. 143° 37.9' IC: + .7
4. 144° 00.0'
4-35. What is the dip?
4-28. What is the true Dec?
1. -5.4
1. S 26° 18.0' 2. -5.7
2. S 26° 21.7' 3. =6.1
3. S 26° 24.7' 4. -6.3
4. S 26° 33.8'
4-36 What is the Ha?
4-29. What is the Dec INC/d?
1. 49° 32.8'
1. 18.0 and -39.6' 2. 49° 35.6'
2. 21.7 and -47.2' 3. 49° 53.6'
3. 24.7 and +54.0' 4. 49° 58.7'
4. 33.8 and +54.0'
4-37 What is the altitude correction?
4-30. What is the total corr?
1. 1. -.4
+20.6' 2. -.6
2. -20.6' 3. -.7
3. -19.0' 4. -.8
4. -22.2'
4-38. What is the Ho?
4-31. What is the Hc (Tab)?
1. 21° 1. 49° 23.8'
24.3' 2. 49° 27.8'
2. 21° 41.8' 3. 49° 32.9'
3. 21° 45.5' 4. 49° 34.3'
4. 21° 50.5'
4-32. 4-39. What is the total GHA?
What is the computed Hc?
1. 291° 36.7'
1. 18.0' 2. 291° 53.7'
2. 28.3' 3. 292° 36.7'
3. 29.6' 4. 292° 46.3'
4. 30.5'
4-33. 4-40. What is the LHA?
What is the a?
1. 264°
1. 1.3 A 2. 265°
2. 1.3 T 3. 267°
3. 1.6 A 4. 268°
4. 1.8 T
4-41. What is the Hc?
4-34. What is the Zn?
1. 49° 21.0
1. 154.0 2. 49° 23.0
2. 154.5 3. 49° 24.0
3. 205.9 4. 49° 27.0
4. 205.8
4-42. What is the a factor?
1. 10.4 T
2. 10.4 A
3. 12.6 T
4. 12.6 A
17
4-43. What is the Zn? 4-50. What is the Ha?

1. 120 1. 75°14.1'
2. 122 2. 75°18.6'
3. 124 3. 75°21.6'
4. 126 4. 75°30.0'
4-44. What is the assumed longitude? 4-51 . What is the Ho?

1. 27° 09.9' 1. 75°14.1'
2. 27° 15.4/ 2. 75°18.6'
3. 27° 36.7' 3. 75°21.6'
4. 27° 46.7' 4. 75°29.8'
IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 4-45 THROUGH 4-52, 4-52. What is the latitude by LAN?
REFER TO FIGURES 4-C, 4-G, AND 4-H,
LOCATED AT THE END OF THIS ASSIGNMENT. 1. 32°20.0'
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS GIVEN TO 2. 32°21.0'
SOLVE THE LOCAL APPARENT NOON. 3. 32°21.6'
4. 32°24.2'
DATE: 1 AUGUST 1984
DR LATITUDE: 32°20.1N 4-53. What method(s) is/are used in
DR LONGITUDE: 17°50.0W taking sights of LAN?
ZT LAN OBSERVED: 1218
IC: 1.5 1. Maximum altitude only
hs: 75°20.1' 2. Numerous sights only
HEIGHT OF EYE: 60 FT 3. Altitude suspension
4. Maximum altitude and numerous
4-45. What is the standard meridian? sights
1. 0° 4-54. Maximum altitude is recommended

2. 7 1/2° because of its adaptability to
3. 15° various conditions, and because it
4. 22 1/2° develops an insight into how
altitude varies near LAN?
4-46. What is the local mean time of
meridian passage? 1. True
2. False
1. 1206
2. 1218 4-55. When observing LAN, how many
3. 1230 minutes prior to the computed time
4. 1300 should the observer commence taking
sights?
4-47. What is the zone description?
1. 5
1. 0 2. 10
2. +l 3. 15
3. -1 4. 20
4. +2
4-56. If LAN is accurate, what should the
4-48. What is the d correction? maximum latitude error be?
1. +.2 1. 0 . 2 5 '
2. -.2 2. 0 . 5 0 '
3. +.6 3. 1.0'
4. -.6 4. 1.5'
4-49. What is the IC correction?

1. 0
2. (+)1.5
3. (-)1.5
4. +3.0
18
Figure 4A.—Nautical Almanac right-hand daily page.
19
Figure 4B.—Nautical Almanac Increments and Corrections page.
20
Figure 4C.—Nautical Almanac Altitude Correction Tables.
21
Figure 4D.—Pub. 229 right-hand sample page.
22
Figure 4E.—Pub. 229 Interpolation table (extract).
23
Figure 4F.—Celestial Fix.
24
Figure 4G—Nautical Almanac right-hand daily page.
25
Figure 4H.—Nautical Almanac right-hand daily page.
26
Figure 4I.—Nautical Almanac Increments and Corrections page.
27
ASSIGNMENT 5
Textbook Assignment: "Weather Observation," chapater 10, pages 10-1 through 10-27.
5-1. What agency is responsible for U.S. 5-8. Between the prevailing westerly and
Navy meteorological and the trade wind zones lies a
oceanographic supports and subtropical high referred to as the
services?
1. horse latitudes
1. NAVOCEANCEN 2. doldrums
2. Weather Bureau 3. polar front zones
3. NOAA 4. polar easterlies
4. National Weather Service
5-2. Which of the following activities
are primary contributors to IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 5-9 THROUGH 5-12,
NAVOCEANCEN? SELECT FROM COLUMN B THE DESCRIPTION THAT
MATCHES THE WINDS IN COLUMN A. RESPONSES
1. Navy units at sea WILL ONLY BE USED ONCE.
2. Marine Corps units only
3. Navy and Marine Corps units A. WINDS B. DESCRIPTION
4. National Weather Services
5-9. Doldrums 1. Results from
5-3. What are the percentages of the deflection
(a) nitrogen and (b) oxygen 5-10. Tradewinds caused by the
in Earth's atmosphere? coriolis force
5-11. Horse latitudes as air moves
1. (a) 57 (b) 21 polewards
2. (a) 21 (b) 75 5-12. Prevailing
3. (a) 78 (b) 21 westerlies 2. Areas of sub-
4. (a) 78 (b) 25 tropical high-
pressure
5-4. In which region is the quantity of
water vapor much greater? 3. Move north
and south of
1. Poles the equator
2. Oceans with the Sun
3. Land
4. Equator 4. Found north
and south of
5-5. Moist air with a temperature of 50° the doldrums
is heavier than drier air of the
same temperature.
1. True 5-13. What type of weather occurs when
2. False doldrums are absent in the
equatorial region?
5-6. In the Northern Hemisphere, we
refer to winds of high pressure by 1. Rain squalls
which of the following terms? 2. Thunder storms
3. Fog
1. Hurricane 4. Haze
2. Cyclone
3. Anti-cyclone 5-14. Where are horse latitudes located?
4. Typhoon
1. 0° to 15°
5-7. Which of the following types of 2. 20° to 35°
winds are associated with doldrums? 3. 30° to 40°
4. 30° to 50°
1. Tropical breezes only
2. Trade winds 5-15. Which of the following cloud types
3. Prevailing winds only is NOT a low etage cloud?
4. Tropical breezes and prevailing
winds 1. Conolonimbus
2. Stratocumulus
3. Nimbostratus
4. Straus
28
5-16. Which of the following cloud types 5-25. How is the meeting of distinctly
is thin, wispy, or hairlike? different air masses referred?
1. Cirrus 1. Low pressure
2. Cirrocumulus 2. High pressure
3. Cirrostratus 3. Trough
4. Stratocumulus 4. Front
5-26. When you are drawing isobars, what
is the value of the base millibar?
SELECT FROM COLUMN B THE DESCRIPTION THAT 1. 900 mb
MATCHES THE CLOUD LISTED IN COLUMN A. 2. 950 mb
RESPONSES WILL ONLY BE USED ONCE. 3. 1000 mb
4. 1050 mb
A. CLOUD B. DESCRIPTION
5-27. Isobars are lines drawn on a c h a r t
5-17. Cirrocumulus 1. Fattened that connect areas of equal
globular
5-18. Altocumulus masses 1. height
2. depth
5-19. Stratocumulus 2. Dense 3. pressure
vertical 4. temperature
5-20. Cumulus development
5-28. What is the millibar separation
3. Mackerel sky value between each isobar in the
area from 25° t o t h e S o u t h P o l e ?
4. Soft and gray
with dark 1. 6 mb
spots 2. 2 mb
3. 10 mb
4. 4 mb
5-21. What is the average atmospheric 5-29. Which of the following rules should
pressure at Earth's surface? you keep in mind when you are
drawing isobars?
1. 1010.4 MB
2. 1013.2 MB 1. The isobaric pattern is apt to
3. 1015.7 MB be complicated when the wind
4. 1017.8 MB circulation is strong
2. The isobaric pattern is apt to
5-22. What is the approximate average be simple with a large scale
atmospheric pressure per square movement of air
inch at sea level? 3. Isobars are faired by including
minor variations in wind
1. 11 circulation
2. 15 4. Isobars are not affected by the
3. 17 strength of wind circulation
4. 18
5-30. When you are analyzing isobars and
5-23. How accurately can an aneroid accompanying weather, you should
barometer be read? remember that the closer the
isobars are together the
1. 1.00
2. 0.50 1. greater the winds will be in
3. 0.10 that area
4. 0.01 2. greater the amount of
precipitation in that area
5-24. What occurs along the boundary when 3. slower the winds will be in
distinctly different air masses that area
touch? 4. larger the area of high or low
pressure
1. Haze
2. Fog
3. Cloudiness
4. Clearing
29
5-31. If when analyzing isobars you IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 5-35 THROUGH 5-41,
determine you have a high-pressure SELECT THE SYMBOL FROM COLUMN B THAT
system, the wind will blow in which MACHES THE DESCRIPTOR IN COLUMN A.
of the following directions? RESPONSES MAY BE USED MORE THAN ONCE.
REFER TO FIGURE 10-8 IN YOUR TEXT.
1. In toward the center, across
the isobars A. DESCRIPTOR B. SYMBOLS
2. In toward the center, parallel
to the isobars 5-35. Warm front
3. Out from the center, across the
isobars 5-36. Stationary
4. Out from the center, parallel front
to the isobars
5-37. Cold front
5-32. Which of the following tendencies
occurs after a front passes? 5-38. Occluded front
1. Pressure usually falls 5-39. Blue line

2. Pressure usually rises
3. Pressure stabilizes 5-40. Red line
4. Pressure is erratic
5-41. Red and blue
5-33. Which of the following wind line
characteristics accompany a warm
front in the Northern Hemisphere?
1. The wind speed decreases as the 5-42. With the approach of a cold front,
front approaches and shifts the initial wind normally blows
abruptly once it reaches your from which direction?
position
2. The wind speed increases as the 1. Southwest
front approaches and rarely 2. Northwest
shifts as abruptly as a cold 3. Southeast
front 4. Northeast
3. The wind speed decreases as the
front approaches and will shift 5-43. Which of the following
on passage in a clockwise characteristics is typical of the
direction passage of a slow-moving cold
4. The wind speed increases as the front?
front approaches and will shift
on passage in a 1. Precipitation is continuous and
counterclockwise direction long lasting
2. The temperature is cold before
5-34. During a warm front passage, how is the front's passage and
temperature affected? increases rapidly after passage
3. The dew point raises with the
1. Rises slowly passage of a slow-moving cold
2. Rises gradually front
3. Rises quickly 4. Gusty winds will rarely
4. Starts slowly and increases accompany a cold front's
with the passage passage
5-44. Which of the following
characteristics is typical of the
temperature after the passage of a
cold front?
1. It will increase very slowly
2. It will increase very rapidly
3. It will decrease very slowly
4. It will decrease very rapidly
5-45. Dew point temperature generally
helps to locate fronts, except in
mountainous regions.
1. True
2. False
30
5-46. Your ship is heading north at 15 IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 5-51 THROUGH 5-56,
knots and true wind is blowing from SELECT FROM COLUMN B THE CHARACTERISTIC
the south at 20 knots, what is the THAT MATCHES THE SEA CONDITION LISTED IN
relative wind speed? COLUMN A. RESPONSE WILL BE USED MORE THAN
ONCE.
1. 5 Kn
2. 15 Kn A. SEA CONDITION B. CHARACTER-
3. 20 Kn ISTICS
4. 35 Kn
5-51. Gentle breeze 1. Moderately
5-47. Your ship is heading 225° at 5 high winds
knots, and the relative wind is 5-52. Gale
blowing on your starboard bow 2. Gale
(070°R) at 17 knots. What is the 5-53. 48-55 knots
apparent wind speed and direction? 3. Very high
5-54. 7-10 knots waves with
1. 070° at 22 Kn long
2. 155° at 12 Kn 5-55. Storm overhanging
3. 225° at 5 Kn crests
4. 295° at 17 Kn 5-56. 34-40-knots
4. Large
5-48 . Anemometer indicates which type of wavelets,
wind? crests
begin to
1. Actual break
2. True
3. Apparent
4. Relative
5-57. Which publication contains
5-49. What is the maximum wind speed information on figuring true wind?
indicated on a handheld anemometer?
1. H.O. Pub 17
1. 60 Kn 2. Pub 217
2. 70 Kn 3. Pub 1310
3. 80 Kn 4. Pub 151
4. 100 Kn
5-58. What is the Fahrenheit equivalent
5-50 . When visual estimation of wind to 23° C e l s i u s ?
speed is being used, what is meant
by fetch area? 1. 71
2. 72.1
1. Area where waves are being 3. 73.4
generated by current 4. 77.5
2. Area where swells are being
generated by wind 5-59. What is the Celsius equivalent of
3. Area where waves are being 47° F a h r e n h e i t ?
generated by wind
4. Area where swells are being 1. 5.7°
generated by current 2. 8.3°
3. 8.7°
4. 9.3°
31
ASSIGNMENT 6
Textbook Assignment: "Voyage Planning," chapter 12, pages 12-1 through 12-26.
6-1. The collective title given to 6-6. Planned intended movement (PIM)
preplanned evolutions and events is moves along the ship's intended
track at the
1. deployment considerations
2. voyage planning 1. ship's present speed
3. operational assignments 2. SOA of each leg
4. geographic reassignments 3. speed desired by each OOD
4. speed determined by the OTSR
6-2. Completing your ship's intended reply
track on the proper chart format is
determined by the 6-7. When labeling a PIM, what type of
time is used?
1. distance to be traveled
2. availability of classified 1. LMT
charts 2. GMT
3. OPORD requirements 3. ZT
4. length of cruise 4. UCT
6-3. Which of the following statements 6-8. How often are DR positions
concerning the drawing of great indicated on a PIM?
circle tracks is incorrect?
1. Every 6 hr
1. Great circles drawn on a 2. Every 2 hr
gnomonic chart are straight 3. Every 8 hr
lines 4. Every 4 hr
2. Great circle charts compared to
small scale Mercator charts 6-9. There is no difference between
have minimal distortion planning coastal tracks and great
3. Great circle sailing is circle tracks.
mandatory in all cases
4. Great circle sailings are 1. True
initially plotted on gnomonic 2. False
charts and then transferred to
Mercator charts 6-10. Which of the following distances is
the maximum range when planning a
6-4. Compared to plotting on the great coastal navigation track?
c i r c l e c h a r t , plotting around an
obstacle on a Mercator chart will 1. 20 nmi
impact the most on the 2. 25 nmi
3. 50 nmi
1. departure 4. 60 nmi
2. destination position
3. plotting instruments used 6-11 . What is the minimum distance a
4. ship's total track distance track may be permitted to pass a
shoal?
6-5. Your ship's great circle track
across the Atlantic Ocean is 1. 3 miles
divided into chords to enable you 2. 5 miles
to transfer the track to Mercator 3. 10 miles
c h a r t s . Each chord normally 4. 20 miles
represents how many nautical miles?
6-12. When transferring a great circle to
1. 150 a coastal chart, what type of
2. 200 charts must be used?
3. 300
4. 450 1. Charts that show most detail
2. Charts that show best scale
3. Charts that show the largest
scale
4. All of the above
32
6-13. What is the most critical track a 6-21. Which of the following sites is NOT
navigator will lay out? considered to be a good choice for
an anchorage?
1. Great circle
2. Precision anchorage 1. Shallow water
3. Coastal track 2. A mud bottom
4. Restricted water 3. A sand bottom
4. An area with no current
6-14. How is a red sounding defined?
6-22. What is the major danger when you
1. 10 feet beneath the keel anchor in water that is too deep?
2. 15 feet beneath the keel
3. Any shoal water 1. Type of bottom is unknown
4. Any depth deemed a danger by 2. The anchor may drag
the CO 3. Time required to anchor
4. Underwater hazards
6-15. How is a yellow sounding defined?
6-23. What identifies specific anchorages
1. Any depth deemed a danger by on NOS charts?
the CO
2. Any depth beneath the keel that 1. Letters only
indicates danger 2. Numbers only
3. Any depth beneath the keel that 3. Letters and numbers
indicates potential danger 4. Roman numerals
4. Any shoal water
6-16. Navigational aids may be marked
using any color except red? IN ANSWERING QUESTIONS 6-24 THROUGH 6-27,
SELECT THE ANCHORING TERM LISTED IN COLUMN
1. True B THAT MATCHES THE ANCHORING DESCRIPTION
2. False IN COLUMN A. NO RESPONSE MAY BE USED MORE
THAN ONCE.
6-17. When should a slide bar be used?
A. ANCHORING B. ANCHORING
1. Always DESCRIPTION TERM
2. When turning 90°
3. When transiting a narrow river 6-24. Length varies 1. L e t t i n g g o
4. Never in coastal waters according to circle
ship size
6-18. Your ship is left of track, when 2. Range
should you start the turn? 6-25. A line that circle
indicates
1. Early on the turn bearing relation to 3. Head
2. Late on the turn bearing track bearing
3. Early on the slide bar
4. Late on the slide bar 6-26. A distance that is 4. Approach
equal to the length track
6-19. On larger vessels, how many knots from the hawsepipe
of wind can equal 1 knot of to the pelorus
current?
6-27. Measured from the
1. 1.0 letting go circle
2. 1.5
3. 5.0
4. 10.0
6-28. Which of the following circles is
6-20. Who is responsible for selecting an centered at the calculated position
anchorage in other than established of the anchor and whose radius
ports? equals the ship's length plus the
scope of chain?
1. The leading QM
2. The navigator 1. Range circle
3. The operations officer 2. Letting go circle
4. The commanding officer 3. Drag circle
4. Swing circle
33
6-29. What are two types of bearings 6-36. What is the normal scope of chain
associated with approaching an used when anchoring?
anchorage?
1. Two to four times the depth of
1. Head and letting go water
2. Head and beam 2. Three to five times the depth
3. Beam and letting go of water
4. Range and head 3. Four to six times the depth of
water
6-30. When laying out a head bearing for 4. Five to seven times the depth
an anchorage, w h i c h f a c t o r ( s ) m u s t of water
be considered?
6-37. How is the term "setting the
1. The lay of the land anchor" d e f i n e d ?
2. Wind
3. Current 1. Anchor secured on deck
4. Wind and current 2. Anchor setting on the bottom
3. Anchor fluke dug into the
6-31. What is the purpose of an anchoring bottom
template? 4. Weight of the anchor chain
holding the anchor in place
1. To provide the most convenient
plotting surface 6-38. When is the second swing circle
2. To enable a ship to quickly drawn?
shift to an alternate anchorage
3. To protect the chart from 1. At the same time the initial
excessive wear anchor circle is drawn
4. Both 2 and 3 above 2. After veering the anchor chain
3. After the anchor chain is set
6-32. When approaching an anchorage, when 4. After the final position has
should the ship slow to 5 to 7 been established
knots?
6-39. After the drag circle is drawn, all
1. 1,000 yd fixes should fall within the drag
2. 1,250 yd circle.
3. 1,500 yd
4. 1,750 yd 1. True
2. False
6-33. What effects the range from the
letting go circle that engines 6-40. Why is it desirable to select
should be stopped? lighted aids for fixing the ship's
position at anchor?
1. Wind only
2. Current only 1. Lighted aids are more prominent
3. Both 1 and 2 above 2. The majority of aids are
4. E n g i n e s a r e always stopped 300 lighted
yards from the letting go 3. Lighted aids will be visible
circle both by day and night
4. Unlighted aids are normally not
6-34. What should the navigator do when properly charted
the anchor is let go?
6-41. How often should the anchor bearing
1. Sound the bottom watch obtain a fix?
2. Record the ship's heading
3. Mark the head bearing 1. Every 15 min
4. Check magnetic deviation 2. Every 30 min
3. Every hour
6-35. What is meant by the term "veering 4. When the ship's heading changes
the anchor"? more than 15°
1. Letting out chain 6-42. What should immediately be done if

2. Swiveling the anchor a fix falls outside the drag
3. Setting the anchor circle?
4. Taking in chain
1. Take another fix
2. Inform the OOD
3. Inform the CDO
4. Watch the fixes more closely
34
6-43. What should you assume if a fix 6-49. The navigation brief is given how
plots outside the drag circle? many hours prior to getting under
way?
1. The anchor was improperly
plotted 1. 8 hr
2. The drag circle was improperly 2. 12 hr
plotted 3. 24 hr
3. The tide has shifted 4. 48 hr
4. The anchor is dragging
6-50. Which of the following evolutions
6-44. What may cause a ship to drag should be accomplished 8 hours
anchor without any indication of prior to getting under way?
movement?
1. Verify tugs/pilot
1. High winds 2. Energize radar repeaters
2. High swells 3. Determine gyro error
3. High sea waves 4. Check navigation lights
4. Tidal shift
6-51. The navigation brief is given how
6-45. What action may be taken to prevent many hours prior to entering port?
t h e anchor from dragging?
1. 8 hr
1. Veer the anchor chain 2. 12 hr
2. Shorten the chain 3. 24 hr
3. Shorten the chain's catenary 4. No setting time
4. Put the main engines on the
line 6-52. Prior to entering port, when is the
ship's whistle tested?
6-46. When anchored in high wind, what
official is stationed on the 1. 15 min
bridge? 2. 30 min
3. 45 min
1. OOD 4. 1 hr
2. JOOD
3. Conning officer 6-53. When should a steering test be
4. Leading QM conducted?
6-47. Who is responsible for giving the 1. 30 minutes prior to sea d e t a i l
navigation brief? 2. 3 0 m i n u t e s p r i o r t o approaching
shoal water
1. Leading QM 3. Only if the steering is
2. Navigator sluggish
3. Operations officer 4. 4 5 m i n u t e s p r i o r t o approaching
4. Any of the above shoal water
6-48. Commander Naval Surface Forces 6-54. When should the OOD request
Atlantic and Pacific require permission to enter port?
navigational briefings to be held
p r i o r t o g e t t i n g u n d e r w a y . The 1. 30 min
format can be found in 2. 45 min
COMNAVSURFINST 3530.2. 3. 1 hr
4. Any time prior to arriving at
1. True sea buoy
2. False
35

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ERRATA #3 18 Jul 2000

Specific Instructions and Errata for

Questions Questions Questions

1-30 3-29 4-33

1995 Edition Prepared by

NAVSUP Logistics Tracking Number

“I am a United States Sailor.

I will support and defend the

I represent the fighting spirit of the

I proudly serve my country’s Navy

I am committed to excellence and

INTRODUCTION TO NAVIGATION ................. 1-1

COMPASSES ................................... 2-1

NAVIGATIONAL PUBLICATIONS .................. 3-1

THE NAUTICAL ROAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

BASICS OF TIME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

INTRODUCTION TO CELESTIAL NAVIGATION . . . . . . . 6-1

TIDES AND CURRENTS .......................... 7-1

DEAD RECKONING, PILOTING, AND ELECTRONIC

CELESTIAL OBSERVATIONS AND SIGHT REDUCTION

WEATHER OBSERVATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

THE SHIP’S BRIDGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

VOYAGE PLANNING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1

GLOSSARY .................................... AI-1

REFERENCES .................................. AII-1

INDEX ........................................ INDEX-l

QUARTERMASTER -Table of Contents, Continued

CHAPTER 1— INTRODUCTION TO NAVIGATION

Origins and Primary Areas of Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

The Magnetic Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

QUARTERMASTER -Table of Contents, Continued

CHAPTER 3— NAVIGATIONAL PUBLICATIONS

Navigational Publication Quick Reference Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

CHAPTER 4— THE NAUTICAL ROAD

Navigational Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

CHAPTER 5— BASICS OF TIME

Apparent Time and Mean Solar Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

QUARTERMASTER -Table of Contents, Continued

CHAPTER 5— BASICS OF TIME, continued

Documenting Chronometer Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17

CHAPTER 6— INTRODUCTION TO CELESTIAL NAVIGATION

Earth and the Celestial Sphere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

CHAPTER 7— TIDES AND CURRENTS

Effect of the Sun and Moon on Tides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

CHAPTER 8— DEAD RECKONING, PILOTING, AND ELECTRONIC

The DR Plot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

QUARTERMASTER -Table of Contents, Continued

CHAPTER 8— DEAD RECKONING, PILOTING, AND ELECTRONIC

Labeling the Course Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17

CHAPTER 9— CELESTIAL OBSERVATIONS AND SIGHT REDUCTION

Methods For Finding Gyrocompass Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

CHAPTER 10— WEATHER OBSERVATION

The Atmosphere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3