compass deflection

A key concept in navigation, "compass deflection" refers to the deviation of a compass needle from true north due to various magnetic influences.

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Definition

C1Navigation

(technical)The angle by which a compass needle is offset from true north, caused by the Earth's magnetic field not aligning perfectly with its geographical axis.

Example

  • Navigators must account for compass deflection to ensure accurate course plotting.

C1Navigation

(technical)The deviation of a compass needle due to local magnetic interferences such as nearby magnetic fields or electric currents.

Example

  • The compass deflection was significant near the power lines, affecting the ship's navigation.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "compass deflection":

bow compassbox the compassmagnetic deviationmagnetic compass