The correct answer is D. a detailed geographic coordinate system.
Answer A is not accurate because new and faster ships models made early exploration possible. The methods of ship construction in Europe were perfected. In this way, the shapes of the boats were adapting an aerodynamic line that facilitated their movement, safety, maneuverability and speed.
Answer B was also an important advance for early exploration. The astrolabe is an ancient instrument that allows to determine the position and height of the stars on the celestial vault. The astrolabe was used by navigators, astronomers and scientists in general to locate the stars and observe their movement.
Answer C is also not the proper because the cartography advanced significantly in European countries and was developed by important cartographers, the result of much work and research.
The first formally developed Geographical Information System appears in Canada under the auspices of the Federal Department of Energy and Resources. This system, called CGIS (Canadian Geographical Information Systems), was developed in the early 1960s by Roger Tomlinson, not when the first navigators and expeditionaries set out to conquer the great geographical discoveries.