Quick Answer
Declination Misinformation During Wilderness Survival: A Threat to Navigation
Understanding Declination
Declination, also known as variation, is the difference between magnetic north and true north. It varies by location and can be significant in wilderness survival situations. A 10-degree declination can mislead a navigator up to 18 miles off course in a single hour of travel.
Impact on Navigation
A declination of 10 degrees can be catastrophic in the wilderness. To mitigate this, it’s essential to know your local declination and set your compass accordingly. The USGS provides declination values for various regions, and you can also download declination charts or use a declination calculator. For example, if your local declination is 15 degrees east, you’ll need to adjust your compass accordingly to avoid significant navigation errors.
Tips for Wilderness Navigation
To avoid declination misinformation, use a declination chart or app to determine your local value. In the absence of a chart or app, use a compass to determine the declination for your location by observing the needle’s deflection from true north. Keep in mind that declination can change over time due to the movement of the Earth’s magnetic field. Always double-check your declination value to ensure accurate navigation.
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