The Celestial Navigation Event is a skill-based competition that introduces maritime students to the classic art of navigating by the stars. Participants are assessed on sextant handling, star identification, and essential celestial calculations. The event begins with a written round covering key concepts, followed by a practical sextant session in which teams determine index error and take artificial star sights. Participants then identify major constellations and navigational stars before completing full sight calculations to obtain the intercept, position line, and final fix. This event strengthens real-world navigation skills and celebrates traditional techniques used long before modern electronics, with winners selected based on accuracy, speed, and depth of understanding of celestial principles.
Rules and Regulations
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A maximum of three participants is allowed per team.
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Permitted methods for the competition include the sun longitude by chronometer method and the star method.
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Each individual team member must compulsorily take a minimum of three sights.
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Points will be allotted based on the time taken to complete the sight.
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A total of 60 minutes will be provided to each team to complete the calculations; exceeding the allotted time will result in a deduction of points.
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Star sights will earn the team additional bonus points.
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Accuracy of position fixing and speed of calculations will be evaluated.
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Cadets must manage their time effectively throughout the event.
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Cadets who fail to report within the allotted time will be disqualified.
See the event brochures to know more –> Celestial Sights Brochure