On finding Polaris

[barnakiel]

Originally Posted by gpshephe

Hey Barnakiel, the only problem as I see it with that one is what if the big dipper is below the horizon. Not at 45 north, but can be at 20. Taking a sight to me would be more of a problem than finding the damn thing. One leg wrapped around the mast, Holding the sextant in one hand, holding on with the other while the seas are 10 feet.

I never shoot stars - they tend to be way to faint at the right time. You need the horizon.

Anyways, if you want to find your North Star: grab a hand-bearing compass and mark North then pre-set your sextant to where the star should be. That's that I think. Same trick for any other star.

I would rather use a bright planet as they are visible while the horizon is still easy to use. Otherwise use moon soon after moonrise - the part of the horizon you want may be brighter then.

But, as a rule, I use the sun for my sights.

When none available, I would look up the GPS.

! You got me thinking if there is a 'South Star' perhaps.

b.

[David M]

I just stand in one place for 10 hours, look up and see which of the stars has moved the least.

[Blue Stocking]

What !!?--don't you guys know where you you're goin when you leave home ?

[ErikFinn]

Originally Posted by Greg4cocokai

The ap for the Iphone I use is "Night Sky".

Cheers, Greg

Hi Greg and greetings from Penang, Malaysia! As I found a few "Night Sky" applications on Play Store I just wanted to ask if your app is the free "The Night Sky Lite" by iCandi Apps?
Regards,
Erik