The Mechanical Star-bearing Finder: A Simple Guide to Night Marching in Southern England and North France

Abstract

THIS is a convenient pocket arrangement by means of which one can solve several of the problems which are capable of solution by the cetestial globe. It is intended primarily for the determination of bearings by observations of stars, for use in night marching. Briefly, it is a planisphere in which the principal stars which are not too far from the equator are represented in a cylindrical projection; the star-chart is adjustable for different dates, and there is a movable celluloid protractor on which are marked the projection of the horizon and the projections of vertical circles at intervals of 10°. Following the simple instructions given, the magnetic bearing of a star, even if its name be unknown, can readily be ascertained. The operations are entirely mechanical, and anyone of ordinary intelligence should be able to determine directions with considerable accuracy. The form of projection adopted, however, has the defect of failing to give bearings of stars towards the north, and it is not very clear why the results are expressed in magnetic instead of in true bearings. A protractor adapted for southern Scotland and northern England is obtainable alternatively or separately.

The Mechanical Star-bearing Finder: A Simple Guide to Night Marching in Southern England and North France.

By E. T. Goldsmith. (London: George Philip and Son, Ltd.) Price 5s. net.