A few small points after some research - In the 1886 edition of Bowditch it
recommends using Lunar Distances on occasion to check the accuracy of the
chronometer, but not as the primary method of determining Longitude. The
original 1802 edition considers it superior method for determining longitude.
One problem, however, is that it requires 3 simultaneous sights (distance
between, and the altitudes of two bodies), which implies 4 people working
together. It is possible for one person to do it, but the mathematics becomes
much more tedious.


"Jeff Morris" wrote in message
...
I used to think that using lunars was common until radio time signals finally
eliminated issues about chronometer expense and accuracy around 1912. Then I
came across a tutorial written about 1890 which complained that although the
technique of lunar distances was still taught, they were considered too
tedious
by most seamen and had pretty much fallen into disuse.

Jax is probably correct that it was little used around 1800. Even after
Bowditch was published in 1802 there were very few seamen who could handle the
math.

I believe there is a minor resurgence now that most computer programs will
handle the nasty math.



"otnmbrd" wrote in message
ink.net...


JAXAshby wrote:
otn, you just explained why celestial navigation is worthless. you also
explained why celestial navigation as the term is used does not include
Lunar
Distances.

btw, Lunar Distances were in common use on most ships until about the
middle
of
the 19th century, not the beginning.

Oops .... got my centuries wrong.(meant to say not living prior to the
20th century) Actually, Lunar distances were used to some degree,
through the 19th century, but the need for them became academic, once
the chronometer was readily available.
As for celestial being worthless, I will admit, to someone such as
yourself, who has never learned to use it and/or become proficient in
it's use, it is useless, coupled with the fact, that as "galley boy",
you'd never have the need.
It is, however, included in "celestial navigation", since, once again,
it involves sights of celestial bodies (or are you also unaware of the
methods used to obtain the basic information used in lunar distances?).

Go back to googling, Jax .... as always,the response to your responses
quickly become exercises in talking to a brain dead Cocker Spaniel (My
apologies to the Cocker Spaniel owners out there).

otn