Astronavigation is the art and science of determining a ship’s position and course by observing celestial bodies. It is a method of navigation that uses the positions of stars, planets, and other celestial bodies to determine a vessel’s location and direction of travel. Astronavigation has been used for centuries by sailors and navigators, and it remains an important skill for anyone who travels by sea.
Definitions
Astronavigation is the process of using celestial bodies to determine the position and course of a ship or aircraft. It involves observing the stars, planets, and other celestial bodies and using their positions to calculate the ship’s location and direction of travel.
Origin
The practice of astronavigation dates back thousands of years, to the time when humans first began to explore the seas. Early navigators used the stars to guide their ships, and over time, they developed more sophisticated methods of astronavigation. Today, astronavigation is still an important skill for sailors and navigators, and it is taught in many maritime schools and training programs around the world.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, astronavigation is “the art or science of determining the position and course of a ship or aircraft by observing celestial bodies.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “navigation by means of the stars.”
Associations
Astronavigation is closely associated with the maritime industry, as it is an important skill for sailors and navigators. It is also used in aviation, as pilots sometimes use celestial navigation to determine their position and course.
Synonyms
Synonyms for astronavigation include celestial navigation, star navigation, and stellar navigation.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for astronavigation, as it is a specific method of navigation.
The same root words
The root words of astronavigation are “astro,” which means “star,” and “navigation,” which means “the process or activity of accurately ascertaining one’s position and planning and following a route.”
Example Sentences
- The captain used astronavigation to determine the ship’s position and course.
- The sailor was skilled in astronavigation and could navigate the ship even without modern technology.
- The pilot used astronavigation to navigate through the clouds and find his way to the destination.
- The ancient mariners relied on astronavigation to guide their ships across the open seas.
- Astronavigation is a difficult skill to master, but it is essential for anyone who travels by sea.