Question 1456Navigation General

70% to pass

At meridian transit, the diagram used by a navigator to illustrate the angles involved is based on the _______________.

A celestial equator as observed from above the north celestial pole
B plane of the Greenwich meridian
C plane of the observer's meridian
D celestial equator as observed from above the south celestial pole
AI Explanation

The correct answer is C) the plane of the observer's meridian. At meridian transit, the diagram used by a navigator to illustrate the angles involved is based on the plane of the observer's meridian. This is because the meridian transit occurs when a celestial body, such as the sun, crosses the observer's local meridian, which is the north-south line that passes directly overhead. The other options are incorrect because they do not accurately represent the frame of reference used in the meridian transit diagram. Option A and D refer to the celestial equator as observed from the north and south celestial poles, respectively, which are not directly relevant to the observer's local meridian. Option B refers to the plane of the Greenwich meridian, which is not the same as the observer's local meridian.

Ready to test your knowledge?

Take a Navigation General Practice Exam

Want to practice with timed exams?

Download Coast Guard Exams for the full exam experience.

Get the App