How Do You Spell CELESTIAL NAVIGATION?
Pronunciation: [səlˈɛstjə͡l nˌavɪɡˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [səlˈɛstjə͡l nˌavɪɡˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)
Celestial navigation refers to the age-old practice of determining one's position and direction on Earth by observing celestial bodies, such as the sun, moon, stars, and planets. It is a navigation technique primarily used in marine and aviation applications, as well as by explorers and adventurers in remote locations.
The process of celestial navigation involves measuring the angles between celestial bodies and the horizon, using an instrument called a sextant, which helps establish the position of the observer on Earth. By comparing the observed angles with known positions of celestial bodies at specific times, navigators can calculate their latitude and longitude with a high degree of accuracy.
Celestial navigation relies on a set of precomputed tables, known as almanacs, which provide the positions of celestial bodies at specific times. Navigators also consider factors such as the Earth's rotation and the effects of local timezone variations to make precise calculations.
While modern technologies, such as GPS, have largely replaced celestial navigation in everyday navigation, it remains a valuable backup method, particularly in situations where electronic systems may fail or when travelling in remote areas with limited infrastructure. Celestial navigation also holds historical significance, as it has been used by seafarers for centuries, allowing them to explore and map vast expanses of the open seas.
The word "celestial" comes from the Latin word "caelestis", which means "heavenly" or "pertaining to the sky". The term "navigation" derives from the Latin word "navigatio", which means "sailing" or "traveling by ship". Therefore, the etymology of the term "celestial navigation" combines the Latin words for "heavenly" and "sailing", referring to the practice of determining one's position and course using celestial bodies such as the sun, moon, stars, and planets.
