What does azimuth indicate in navigation?

Azimuth in navigation specifically refers to the angular measurement in a spherical coordinate system starting from a reference direction, typically true north. It is used to determine the direction you need to steer or the true bearing to an object, such as a star or a landmark, in relation to your current position. This directional angle is crucial for accurate navigation, helping sailors and aviators focus on the proper course to their destination.

In this context, knowing the true bearing to a star’s geographic position helps navigators make informed decisions while at sea, especially under celestial navigation methods where the positions of stars and planets are used for fixing a ship's location. The azimuth indicates where the star is located relative to a ship’s position on the earth at a specific time, contributing to the overall navigation accuracy.