What is meant by the term 'Celestial body' in navigation?

Study for the Sea Navigation Test. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with explanations. Prepare effectively for your sea navigation exam!

The term 'Celestial body' in navigation refers to entities in space, such as stars, the moon, and planets. These celestial bodies serve as crucial reference points for navigators when plotting courses and determining positions at sea. By observing these bodies, navigators can ascertain their location relative to the Earth using celestial navigation techniques. For instance, the position of stars can be used along with a sextant to find latitude, while the moon and other planets can help determine longitude. Understanding celestial bodies and their movements is fundamental for effective navigation, especially before the advent of modern navigational tools.

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