SEXTANT

An instrument with a graduated arc of 60 and

a sighting mechanism, used for measuring the
angular distances between objects and
especially for taking altitudes in navigation
and surveying.

PARTS OF SEXTANT
1)INDEX MIRROR
2)HORIZON MIRROR
3)TELESCOPE
4)SCALE
5)INDEX ARM
6)WARM & RACK

CORRECTABLE ERRORS
1). Error of perpendicularity This error results from the index
mirror not being perpendicular to
the sextant frame.
2). Side Error - This error results
from the horizon glass not being
perpendicular to the frame of the
sextant.
3). Index Error - This error results
from the horizon glass not being
parallel to the index mirror when
the sextant is set on zero.

NON-CORRECTABLE
ERRORS
1). Graduation Error - These
small errors are caused by
imperfections in machining
the arc, cutting the limb
gears, or marking the scale of
the arc or micrometer drum.
2). Prismatic Error - This error
is caused by the planes of a
mirror not being exactly
parallel.
3). Centering Error - This error
results when the index arm is
not pivoted at the exact center

USES OF SEXTANT
1)- Calibrating the sextant
Before use, the sextant must be calibrated. After
adjusting the alidade to 0 degrees, look through the
eyepiece and locate the horizon. If the image in the
mirror is aligned with the horizon, then your sextant is
calibrated.
2)- Gathering data
Look through the eyepiece to find the central mark. Next,
move the alidade of the sextant until you can see an
object at a distance.
3)- Reading the sextant
The angle separating the two points can be read to
within one degree by referring to the zero on the alidade.