The angle of declination, also known as magnetic declination, is the angle between true north (geographic north) and magnetic north.
Imagine a compass needle pointing towards magnetic north. The angle between that direction and the actual north pole is the declination.
This angle is crucial for navigation, especially for those using compasses or GPS systems.
Why is the angle of declination important?
Accurate Navigation: Declination helps ensure accurate navigation by correcting for the difference between magnetic north and true north.
Compass Readings: Understanding declination allows you to adjust compass readings to get accurate directions.
How does declination vary?
Location: Declination varies depending on your location on Earth. It changes with longitude and latitude.
Time: Over time, the Earth's magnetic field shifts, causing the declination to change slightly.
Finding Declination Information
Online Tools: Many online tools and websites provide declination information for specific locations.
Nautical Charts: Nautical charts often include declination information for the area covered by the chart.
Compass Rose: Some compasses have a compass rose with markings that indicate declination for the specific location.
Example
Let's say the declination in your location is 10 degrees east. This means that your compass needle points 10 degrees east of true north. To find true north, you would need to adjust your compass reading by 10 degrees west.
