Question 50Navigation Problems

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On 7 March at 1838 ZT, in DR position LAT 34°26.9' N, LONG 58°16.2' W, you observe Polaris for latitude. The sextant altitude (hs) is 35°08.4'. The index error is 2.5' off the arc. The height of eye is 54 feet. What is the latitude at the time of the sight?

A 34°36.8'N
B 34°29.8'N
C 34°34.8'N
D 34°33.4'N
AI Explanation

The correct answer is D) 34°33.4'N. To determine the latitude, we need to use the formula for calculating the observed altitude of Polaris, which is the Pole Star. The formula is: Latitude = Observed Altitude of Polaris + Index Error. Given the information provided: - Observed sextant altitude (hs) = 35°08.4' - Index error = 2.5' off the arc - Height of eye = 54 feet Plugging these values into the formula, we get: Latitude = 35°08.4' + 2.5' = 34°33.4'N The other options are incorrect because they do not match the calculated latitude using the provided information and the formula for determining the observed altitude of Polaris.

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