ABSTRACT
This chapter on navigation sensors is dedicated to sensors that support different aspects of the safe and efficient movement of ships through perilous waters and the avoidance of other vessels and hazards to navigation while en route to their destinations. Mechanical and electronic sensors have vastly expanded the range, scope, resolution and accuracy of the human senses to better assist mariners in performing essential pilotage, dead reckoning, celestial and other navigation techniques to locate position, determine time, steer a proper and safe course and continuously monitor the voyage through completion. Examples of invention include the ancient astrolabe, back staff, chip log, leaded line and sextant right up to modern electronic sensors such as Radar, Sonar, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), autopilots, and weather instruments so vital to planning and executing a voyage. This has also led to secondary uses of time-delayed sensor data found in nautical charts, Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) databases, Notices to Mariners and Coast Pilots.
