Question

Before the invention of GPS, early sailors and explorers turned to the stars for navigation. Based on what you’ve learned in this activity, explain how Polaris could be used as a coordinate system in the Northern Hemisphere to determine direction and location.

Answer 1

The north star serves as a location tracking system in space. When looking out towards the north star, sailors can use the angle between the star and the ocean in order to figure out where they are relative to their location on earth. Along with that, the North star can be used as a compass that can help sailors find their path on their journeys.