What is Dead Reckoning in the context of navigation?

Dead Reckoning refers to the process of calculating your current position based on a previously known position. This navigation technique involves using speed, time, and course direction to determine your exact location at any given moment. By taking into account the distance traveled and the direction in which you have moved from your starting point, you can estimate where you are currently situated.

This method is essential in situations where landmarks or GPS signals may not be available and is widely used in various forms of navigation, including maritime and aerial applications. The accuracy of dead reckoning can be affected by factors such as wind, currents, or terrain features, which is why it is often used in conjunction with other navigation methods to provide a more reliable estimate of one’s position.