DEAD RECKONING

DEAD RECKONING

Dead reckoning, (deduced reckoning) , is one of four main divisions of navigation and

is a process by which a ships location or position is deduced, usually trigonometrical, in

relation to a point of departure.

( deduce: to infer or decide by reasoning)

Dead reckoning is basic to all phases of navigation.

Dead reckoning determines a ships approximate position by applying to its last determined

position a series of constructive vectors (compass headings) , using the true course steered

and the distance moved determined by the engine speed ordered. Current is not considered.

Key elements of dead reckoning are; use only the true course steered, multiplying the

ordered engine speed by the 'time' it has acted, and plotted from a 'fixed' position.