Today, a ship’s officer has a myriad of marine navigation equipment that makes his life much simpler, thanks to advances in technology. What’s more, today’s sailors are trained to know the function and operation of all modern navigational equipment that makes sailing smoother and safer.
With modern facilities and automation, a ship today has several advanced navigation equipment systems that provide accurate data for voyages.
Here, we have listed several types of navigational equipment, both old and new, that are present on all commercial vessels.
1. Gyro Compass
This is used to find the right direction. Unlike magnetic compasses, gyro compasses are not hindered by external magnetic fields. It is used to find true north, which is also the earth’s axis of rotation to provide a steady source of direction. The repeater system must include a steering platform for emergency steering.
2. Radar
Marine ships rely on S-band and X-band frequency radar systems for navigation as they can detect targets and display information on the screen such as distance of the ship from land, floating objects (islands, rocks, icebergs etc ..), other ships , and obstacles to avoid collisions. This is a rotating antenna that locates around the ship’s area.
3. Magnetic
Compass The magnetic compass works in conjunction with the earth’s magnetic field and is an important means of indicating direction. It is used to obtain the planned course of a voyage. This ship’s navigation equipment is usually installed in the center line of the ship on monkey island (above the bridge deck). A magnetic transmission type compass is installed so that the output can be displayed on the ship’s bridge panel.
4. Auto Pilot
The ship’s bridge layout is filled with equipment and tools used for navigation. The autopilot is considered one of the most effective bridge navigation equipment as it helps deck officers in controlling the ship by keeping the rudder on autopilot, which allows them to concentrate on the broad aspects of the operation. Visit this website for navigation service amnautical.com
