longitude by observation

简明释义

观测经度

英英释义

例句

1.In ancient times, explorers often relied on longitude by observation to chart new territories.

在古代，探险者常常依靠经度通过观测来绘制新领土的地图。

2.To improve maritime navigation, the crew practiced determining longitude by observation during their voyages.

为了改善海上导航，船员们在航行中练习确定经度通过观测。

3.The accuracy of longitude by observation can greatly affect the success of a journey.

经度通过观测的准确性可以极大地影响一次旅程的成功。

4.The sailors were able to determine their position at sea by calculating their longitude by observation.

水手们通过计算他们的经度通过观测来确定他们在海上的位置。

5.Using a sextant, the navigator measured the stars and found his longitude by observation accurately.

导航员使用六分仪测量星星，准确地找到了他的经度通过观测。

作文

The concept of determining one’s position on Earth has fascinated explorers and scientists for centuries. Among the various methods developed for navigation, one of the most significant techniques is known as longitude by observation. This method involves using celestial bodies, such as the sun and stars, to calculate the longitude of a location, which is essential for accurate navigation at sea and on land. Understanding longitude by observation is crucial for anyone interested in maritime history or astronomy. Historically, sailors faced great challenges when it came to navigating the vast oceans. While they could easily determine their latitude by observing the North Star, finding their longitude was much more complex. The Earth is divided into degrees of longitude, which represent the distance east or west of the Prime Meridian. To accurately measure this, sailors needed a reliable timekeeping method. This is where longitude by observation comes into play. By comparing the local time, determined by the position of the sun, with the time at a known location (like Greenwich), sailors could calculate their longitude. The invention of the marine chronometer in the 18th century revolutionized this process. With a precise clock that kept time accurately at sea, sailors could measure the difference in time between their current location and a reference point. Each hour of difference represented 15 degrees of longitude. Thus, if a ship was three hours behind Greenwich Mean Time, it would be approximately 45 degrees west of the Prime Meridian. This breakthrough allowed for safer and more accurate navigation, reducing the risks of getting lost at sea. However, before the advent of the chronometer, navigators relied on less reliable methods of longitude by observation. They used tools like sextants to measure the angle of celestial bodies above the horizon. By noting the angle of the sun at noon, they could determine their latitude. To find their longitude, they would have to make observations during specific times of the year when certain stars were visible. This required not only skill but also extensive knowledge of astronomy. In modern times, the principles of longitude by observation can still be appreciated, even though technology has advanced significantly. Today, we rely on GPS and other electronic navigation systems to pinpoint our locations. Nevertheless, the fundamental concepts of celestial navigation remain relevant. For instance, enthusiasts and adventurers still practice traditional navigation techniques, valuing the skills and knowledge that come from understanding the natural world. In conclusion, longitude by observation is a vital aspect of navigation that highlights humanity's quest for exploration and understanding of our planet. It represents a blend of science, art, and adventure, showcasing how far we have come in our ability to traverse the globe. As we continue to explore new frontiers, both on Earth and beyond, the principles of longitude by observation will undoubtedly inspire future generations of navigators and explorers. Understanding this method not only enriches our knowledge of history but also deepens our appreciation for the ingenuity and determination of those who came before us.

确定一个人在地球上的位置的概念数世纪以来一直吸引着探险家和科学家。在为导航开发的各种方法中，最重要的技术之一被称为通过观测确定经度。这种方法涉及使用天体，如太阳和星星，来计算一个地点的经度，这对于海上和陆地的准确导航至关重要。理解通过观测确定经度对于任何对海洋历史或天文学感兴趣的人来说都是至关重要的。历史上，水手在导航辽阔的海洋时面临着巨大的挑战。虽然他们可以通过观察北极星轻松确定自己的纬度，但找到他们的经度却复杂得多。地球被划分为经度度数，表示相对于本初子午线的东西距离。为了准确测量这一点，水手需要一种可靠的计时方法。这就是通过观测确定经度的作用。通过比较当地时间（由太阳的位置决定）与已知位置（如格林威治）的时间，水手可以计算出他们的经度。18世纪海洋计时器的发明彻底改变了这一过程。有了能在海上准确计时的时钟，水手们可以测量他们当前位置与参考点之间的时间差。每小时的差异代表15度的经度。因此，如果一艘船比格林威治标准时间晚三个小时，它将大约位于本初子午线以西45度。这一突破使得导航更加安全和准确，减少了迷失在海上的风险。然而，在海洋计时器出现之前，导航员依赖于不太可靠的通过观测确定经度的方法。他们使用六分仪等工具来测量天体在地平线上方的角度。通过记录中午太阳的角度，他们可以确定自己的纬度。为了找到他们的经度，他们必须在一年中特定的时间观察某些星星。这不仅需要技能，还需要广泛的天文学知识。在现代，尽管技术显著进步，但通过观测确定经度的原则仍然值得欣赏。今天，我们依赖GPS和其他电子导航系统来精确定位。然而，天文导航的基本概念依然相关。例如，爱好者和冒险者仍然练习传统的导航技巧，重视理解自然世界所带来的技能和知识。总之，通过观测确定经度是导航的重要方面，突显了人类对探索和理解我们星球的追求。它代表了科学、艺术和冒险的结合，展示了我们在全球旅行能力上取得的进展。随着我们继续探索新的边界，无论是在地球上还是在更远的地方，通过观测确定经度的原则无疑将激励未来几代的导航员和探险者。理解这种方法不仅丰富了我们对历史的知识，也加深了我们对那些曾经走过的人的聪明才智和决心的欣赏。