What Are The Different Types of Compasses?

Generally speaking, everyone around the globe knows about the basic idea of compasses: navigational devices built specifically to shows direction. However, not a lot of people know that there are actually multiple types of compasses in use nowadays that feature different constructions for different purposes. Normally, the average persons have no practical need to learn about all the compass types. However, for outdoor adventurers that intend to venture into the wilderness, a clear understanding of compasses would certainly prove handy. 

Searching around for an in-depth guide to one of the most famous inventions in the entire history of mankind? Then this article right here is precisely what you need. 

What Exactly Is A Compass?

To put in plainly, a compass is an instrument that humans rely on for centuries to get bearings. For most of the time, a special diagram, known as the compass rose, is present on the face of the compass to show cardinal directions (North, South, East and West). In addition to that, the majority of compasses tend to display convenient marking for angles in degrees to minimize errors while navigating. Though more modern devices have been introduced over the years, compasses remain the top choices for navigation in various settings. 

In term of functions, many compasses operate base on the Earth’s magnetic field: they have a magnetized needle that points toward the magnetic North. However, as the magnetic North is not the true North, people put together the electrically powered gyrocompasses for more accuracy. Compared to magnetic compasses, gyrocompasses use the rotation of Earth to find geographical direction so distortions in the magnetic field have no effects on them. That being said, the handiness of magnetic compasses still makes them ideal in certain applications. 

History Of The Compass: Overviews

Through intensive researches, the first compass … Read the rest

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