Determination of Gyro Error

Sun Amplitude Sight

sun is observed at sunset or sunrise.
At this time, it is easy to measure the true
azimuth of the sun, since its right on the
horizon.
True azimuth can be found without using a
sight reduction form, by using either an
amplitude table or the amplitude angle
formula.

Gyro Error by Sun Amplitude

Gyro Error by Sun Amplitude

The previous slide showed the sun at the
time of equinox; at other times of the

year, the suns declination will be above or

below the equator.

Gyro Error by Sun Amplitude

Obviously, if were not at the equator, the
geometry is a bit more complicated, but

the idea is the same.

Compass Deviation by Amplitude

Solution: Sin Amplitude = Sin Dec
/
Cos Lat
Problem # 1. M/V MNTC in position 36o 10N and 028o 20W
observed the suns bearing on sunrise to be 112o PSC.
Declination of the sun is 3o 17.1S. and the variation of
the locality is 18oW. Find the deviation of the standard
compass.
Solution:
Sin Ampl
= Sin Dec
/
Cos Lat
T = 094.1o
= Sin 3o 17.1 /
Cos 36o 10
V = 18oW(+)
=
0.057
/
0.807
M = 112.1o
=
0.071
D=
0.1oE(-)
=
E 4.1o S or 94.1oT
C = 112o