Astronavigation

/ˌæs.troʊˌnæv.ɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/ noun

Definition

The technique of determining location and direction in space or at sea by observing and measuring the positions of stars and celestial objects.

Etymology

From 'astro-' (star) and 'navigation' (finding one's way). Sailors used this method for centuries before it became essential for spacecraft and modern aircraft navigation.

Kelly Says

Astronavigation is how Polynesian navigators crossed the entire Pacific Ocean without instruments—using only star knowledge—yet modern spacecraft use these same principles with computers!

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