A sextant is a doubly reflecting navigation instrument that measures the angular distance between two visible objects. The primary use of a sextant is to measure the angle between an astronomical object and the horizon for the purposes of celestial navigation.
sextant, instrument for determining the angle between the horizon and a celestial body such as the Sun, the Moon, or a star, used in celestial navigation to determine latitude and longitude.
The sextant is a navigational instrument used to measure angles. In celestial navigation, it measures the angle between the horizon and a celestial body (the sun, moon, planets or stars), and in terrestrial navigation, it measures the angle between two charted objects (lighthouses, piers, etc.).
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The meaning of SEXTANT is an instrument for measuring angular distances used especially in navigation to observe altitudes of celestial bodies (as in ascertaining latitude and longitude).
A sextant is a handheld optical tool that helps you find your position at sea by measuring the angle between the horizon and a celestial body, usually the Sun or a bright star.
To use a sextant to find the angle of elevation of an object, you’ll need to know your elevation above sea level. Sight the horizon by looking through the horizon mirror, then move the sextant’s index arm until the object you’re trying to find is also visible on the horizon.
Learn coordinate systems describing positions on Earth and in space. The reason students interested in space and space travel should learn about sextant navigation is that the sextant has proven to be valuable for establishing spacecraft position in emergencies.